Capital Project

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Vote May 20, 2025, 7AM-9PM
at the Somers Middle School Gymnasium

The Somers Central School District Capital Project is a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing safety, upgrading instructional spaces, and modernizing essential infrastructure across district facilities. Based on a thorough facilities assessment, the project will address aging building conditions, improve learning environments, and ensure long-term sustainability while remaining fiscally responsible.

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Key Goals and Investment Details

• Total Project Cost: Total cost not to exceed, $63,919,864, carefully prioritized from an initial $106 million in identified needs.
• Funding Sources:
  • $62,094,864 bond referendum (structured to be tax-neutral due to the retirement of the 2009 bond).
  • $1,825,000 from the Capital Reserve Fund to help offset costs.

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Major Project Components

• Safety & Security Enhancements:
  • Fire alarm system replacements across multiple buildings.
  • Security camera upgrades.
  • Entryway improvements for enhanced security.
• Infrastructure & Site Improvements:
  • Roof repairs, facade weatherization, and exterior upgrades.
  • Drainage improvements, asphalt and walkway replacements.
  • HVAC system upgrades, including classroom ventilator replacements and air quality improvements.
  • Water system replacements, including potable water storage and treatment upgrades.
• Modernized Learning Environments:
  • Classroom improvements, including flooring, flexible furniture, and door replacements at all schools.
  • Science lab upgrades at Somers High School.
  • STEM and art room renovations at Somers Middle School.
  • Upper gym and locker room upgrades at Somers High School.
  • Auditorium improvements at Somers High School.
  • Playground upgrades at Primrose Elementary and Somers Intermediate School.
• Energy Efficiency & Sustainability:
  • Panelboard and electrical switchboard replacements.
  • Turf field LED lighting upgrades at Somers High School.
  • Upgrades to heating and ventilation systems to improve energy efficiency.
• No Additional Local Share Cost Impact
  • This investment will result in no additional local share cost to taxpayers. Local share cost to taxpayers equals the debt payments the District makes minus the New York State building aid that the District receives. The project takes advantage of the retirement of the 2009 bond and capital reserve funds to fund these necessary improvements without adding financial burdens to taxpayers..

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Next Steps & Timeline

• May 20, 2025: Bond Authorization Vote
• June 2025 – April 2026: Design & Approval Process
• June 2026: Construction Begins
• September 2027: Substantial Completion

This capital project represents a long-term commitment to student success, safety, and sustainability, ensuring that Somers Central School District remains a modern, innovative, and well-maintained learning environment for years to come.

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Upcoming Capital Project Meetings
& Key Dates Timeline

January 31, 2025: Facilities Committee Meeting

Formal recommendation on project scope to the Board of Education (BOE).

February 11, 2025: BOE Meeting – Notice of Intent (NOI) for SEQRA

BOE adopts Notice of Intent for the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) and approves the project scope.

March 25, 2025: BOE Meeting – Capital Improvement Project Approval

BOE approves resolutions to include the Capital Project bond vote and adopt SEQRA.

April 8,  2025: Public Bond Presentation #1, presented at the Board of Education Meeting

First community presentation detailing project scope, benefits, and financial impact.

April 23, 2025: Public SMS/SIS Building Tour

May 6, 2025: Public Bond Presentation #2,  presented at the Board of Education Meeting

Final public session before the vote to answer questions and provide additional project details.

May 13, 2025: Public PES/SHS Building Tour

May 20, 2025: Capital Project Bond Authorization Vote

Community votes on the $63.9M tax-neutral bond referendum.

This timeline ensures transparency and engagement with the community, providing multiple opportunities for stakeholders to learn about the project and ask questions before the vote.