Construction of a CIM Lab

• To meet the growing enrollment in pre-engineering classes, as well as to accommodate all of the computers and equipment required for Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) classes, a more functional and effective learning space would be created for students enrolled in these courses, as well as other computer-intensive courses and electives ($25,000).

The existing room, pictured right, would be converted to create a Computer Integrated Manufacturing Lab equipped with the appropriate electrical and audiovisual requirements.

Renovations to H-gym

Plans are proposed to renovate the high school’s primary gymnasium, H-gym, which is used for physical education classes, basketball, volleyball and gymnastics, as well as other sports teams practices and games. The gym was constructed in 1971 and after more than 35 years of tremendous use, it requires several necessary improvements.

• Replace the original, wood bleachers, which are in poor condition and no longer meet safety standards. The new bleachers would be handicapped-accessible and enhance safety, with railings and wider aisles ($200,000).
   

• Replace the original, folding partition door, which is used to divide the full-sized gym, with a new, dividing curtain. The folding door requires regular maintenance and repair, as well as two staff members to operate. One staff member could easily maneuver the dividing curtain, making it more efficient and safe ($25,000). 
   

• Replace the original air handling units, which have been well maintained, but are now beyond their useful life. The shut-off values, controls and actuators are also in poor condition and must be replaced ($180,000).
   

• Install a new drop ceiling to replace center ceiling tiles that are becoming brittle and pose a potential safety hazard ($50,000).
   

• Improve overall lighting by replacing the original, inefficient center court light fixtures with new T-5 lights, which are expected to save approximately 40-50% in energy costs. Currently, the lights are not turned off during the day due to 10-15 minute relight time ($40,000).

Safety and security improvements

As safety continues to be a top concern for school districts across the country, North Colonie remains committed to keeping its students and staff as safe as possible. To further improve safety on the senior campus, the following improvements would be made: 

• Reconstruct the concrete pillars, pictured right, supporting the drop-off area canopy to reinforce its structural integrity ($70,000).
   

• Build a secure pre-entry area outside the high school’s main entrance to better monitor building access ($75,00).
   

• Install additional security cameras, wiring and hardware in the rear instructional wings of the building ($20,000).
   

• Install a back-up generator and tie in to critical building electrical systems to handle emergency situations and power outages ($130,000).

Energy efficiency upgrades

The proposed projects also include efforts to improve energy efficiency, which is essential considering rising energy costs.

• Replace the original, inefficient boilers and construct a ground level storage facility to house them. Given the existing boilers current age and location above H-gym it has become too expensive and labor intensive to access them for maintenance and repair. The new location would also allow for storage of fuel, necessary in light of the State Education Department’s requirement that new boilers be duel fuel capable ($1,030,000).
   

• Replace original unit ventilators that are approaching the end of their useful life to enhance air quality and energy efficiency ($525,000)
   

• Switch to an Internet-based energy management system would allow select maintenance staff to more effectively troubleshoot problems and adjust energy settings from any PC with an Internet connection, on or
  off site ($66,000).
   

• Upgrade existing heating and ventilation controls to a newer, more efficient, Direct Digital Control (DDC) system would better regulate temperature and air quality while maximizing energy savings ($80,000).
   

• Replace original air handling units in the library and F-gym that are approaching the end of their useful life to enhance air quality and energy efficiency ($135,000).
   

Other proposed improvements

• Replace deteriorating doors, hardware and framing in high traffic areas with more durable equipment ($75,000).
   

• Repair cracking in brickwork along the exterior of the building to enhance the building’s facade ($54,000).

Total Cost at Shaker Senior High School: $2,780,000