New Britain has earmarked $57 million to renovate or repair three of its schools, authorities say.
The city’s Common Council Wednesday voted unanimously to authorize bonding for $49 million in renovations to 67-year-old Chamberlain Elementary, and $3 million apiece for roofing projects at Slade and Pulaski Middle Schools, officials said Thursday.
The remaining $2 million would cover the cost of temporary classroom space and financing.
Despite their approval, city leaders say they await formal word from the state as to whether, and how much, it will rebate the city a portion of Chamberlain’s tab, typically an 80 percent reimbursement rate.
According to plans, building spaces will be modernized with technology equipment in areas such as the media center and all instructional spaces including mobile computer carts, wireless access points and computer lab.
The Chamberlain project also involves improvements to the site traffic pattern and more parking. An addition to the existing school will create new space for an on-site health center and family resource center.
Chamberlain was built in 1952 and renovations and additions were made in 1993.
The latest school-funding request comes as work wraps on a $48 million renovation of Smalley Elementary School in the city’s North Oak neighborhood.
