June 7, 2024
Senator Needleman Highlights HVAC Grant Funding For Bacon Academy
Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) highlighted the recent announcement that Colchester will receive $781,375.32 in state grant funding to support improvements and upgrades at Bacon Academy. The funding, representing 60.72% of the project’s $1.287 million cost as announced, will support rebuilding and expanding of rooftop condensing units at the Academy as well as updated controls.
“It’s excellent news that our state continues to provide this important local funding to support local schools,” said Sen. Needleman. “These improvements and upgrades will play a strong role in supporting our students and staff alike, benefitting public health and providing a better environment for the school community as a whole. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and state leaders for supporting Colchester.”
“I appreciate the efforts of Governor Ned Lamont and our legislators to prioritize student health and safety with the Indoor Air Quality Grant Program,” said Colchester First Selectman Bernard Dennler. “These much-needed improvements will help Colchester deliver safer instructional environments and avoid unnecessary closures which have disrupted recent school years. I am glad that the Board of Education and Board of Selectmen were able to collaborate to make this grant application successful.”
The funds in question are being provided through the Indoor Air Quality Grant Program, established by legislators in 2022 to provide matching grants supporting municipalities needing HVAC work. School districts and schools with greatest needs for indoor air quality improvements are prioritized to receive this funding. Funds can be used to replace, upgrade or repair boilers and other heating/ventilation components, replacing controls and technology systems and installing/upgrading air conditioning/ventilation systems.
Studies have shown that up to 10% of students and teachers may suffer from asthma or allergies, and poor indoor air quality, temperature control and allergen control can worsen these conditions. This is part of an effort to modernize ventilation systems to filter air, reduce airborne contaminants and improve the health, safety and quality of schools statewide. |
