Philadelphia − October 22, 2024 − Today, Senator Vincent Hughes, Senate Democratic Appropriations Chair, announced $16.77 million for the Philadelphia School District to improve school buildings throughout the city. The grant funding comes from the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program, a new program that was first included in the Commonwealth’s FY23-24 budget. “This is a significant investment to fix crumbling and toxic schools in Philadelphia,” said Senator Vincent Hughes. “I’ve toured schools in the city that have leaks, visible mold on the walls, and old, outdated heating and air conditioning equipment. Many of our schools have had to close because it was too hot for anyone to be in the building. This funding will alleviate a lot of those issues and provide healthier learning environments for our students, teachers, and school administrators.” The average Philadelphia school building is 75 years old, with some of the district’s oldest buildings being 120 years old. Senator Hughes explained, “We had two students come to Harrisburg and explain the terrible conditions of their school bathrooms. This money addresses the need for very foundational repairs and improvements so students can be comfortable in their school environments.” The grant funding can be used to cover the cost of several different improvement projects at schools, including roof repairs and replacements; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment; and lead and asbestos abatement. The following schools in Philadelphia were awarded funding:
- Blaine Elementary School- $2,981,925 for Window and Door Replacement Project
- Cayuga Elementary School- $815,739 for Roof Replacement Project
- Childs Elementary School- $1,153,827 Bathroom Renovation Project
- Francis Hopkinson School- $821,239 for Roof Replacement Project
- Martha Washington Elementary School- $1,463,982M for Bathroom Renovation Project
- Overbrook High School- $5,000,000 for Auditorium Renovation Project; $3,650,346 for Roof Replacement Project
- Thomas A. Edison High School- $889,049 for Culinary Ventilation System Replacement Project
A total of $175M was awarded throughout Pennsylvania. More information about the grant program and recipients can be found online.
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