ORANGE – The Ralph C. Mahar Regional School District can expect a $33 million state grant to replace the Dexter Park School with an addition at Fisher Hill School to serve students in pre-kindergarten through sixth grade, the Massachusetts School Building Authority announced Wednesday.
The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) Board of Directors voted to approve a grant of up to $33,144,996 for the project, according to State Treasurer and MSBA Chair Deborah B. Goldberg and MSBA Executive Director and Deputy CEO John K. McCarthy.
The proposed project would create 97,115 square feet of educational space and address deficiencies the school district identified in its statement of interest. All major mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems and structural issues would be resolved, according to the building authority.
“Upon completion, this project will provide a 21st century learning environment for elementary school students in Orange,” Goldberg said in a statement. “Our goal is to create the best space to deliver the district’s educational commitments and goals.”
“Orange students will soon have a beautiful renovated space which will undoubtedly enhance and improve their ability to excel in the classroom,” McCarthy said.
Attempts to contact School Superintendent Tari N. Thomas for comment were unsuccessful Thursday.
Reach Domenic Poli at: dpoli@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 262.