Voters in the North Colonie and Maplewood-Colonie Common School Districts overwhelmingly approved a $7 million capital project referendum on Monday, March 3.

Official voting results are 738 yes votes to 153 no votes—a passing margin of 82.8%.

“I am very pleased with the strong community support shown for this project, which will benefit our students and residents with up-to-date and more efficient facilities for years to come,” said Superintendent Randy Ehrenberg.

The project includes about 75 infrastructure repair and improvement projects throughout the district's eight school buildings, plus Maplewood. Many of these projects have been on the district's radar for some time and are identified in the district's five-year Capital Facilities Plan, which is required by the New York State Department of Education.

Highlights of the project include:

• The replacement of roofs, boilers and other antiquated equipment.
   

• Construction of a Computer Integrated Manufacturing Lab to meet growing enrollment in pre-engineering classes.
   

• Newer, more efficient, digital heating and ventilation system to better regulate temperature and air quality while maximizing energy savings.
   

• Handicap accessibility improvements for people with disabilities.
   

• Safety and security improvements districtwide.

The project will be funded through the combination of enhanced state building aid, EXCEL funding and current district reserves. The local taxpayers’ share of the project will be covered by $1.8 million in EXCEL aid, as well as $400,000 from current district reserves.

EXCEL aid is a form of state aid available to school districts for a limited time that covers the cost of certain facility repairs and improvements.

The next phase of the project includes submitting detailed plans to the State Education Department. Pending approval, work could commence as early as this summer. The total project is expected to be completed in the next three to four years.