McClinton, Williams secure nearly $2.5 million for improvement projects at Bell Avenue Elementary and Penn Wood Middle school
Pennsylvania Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton and state Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams, both D-Phila/Delaware, announced today that the William Penn School District has been awarded nearly $2.5 million in two state grants for projects at Bell Avenue Elementary and Penn Wood Middle schools.
Rep. Joanna E. McClinton October 23, 2024
YEADON, Oct 23 -- Pennsylvania Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton and state Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams, both D-Phila/Delaware, announced today that the William Penn School District has been awarded nearly $2.5 million in two state grants for projects at Bell Avenue Elementary and Penn Wood Middle schools.
The first project is receiving $494,625 to contribute to the district’s plan to install an elevator and improve accessibility at Bell Avenue Elementary. Currently, the 86-year-old building is not accessible to students and others who have mobility challenges.
The second project, at Penn Wood Middle School, is receiving $2 million to go toward replacing the roof on the 59-year-old building.
“Our school buildings are aging and need critical maintenance and updates to keep them operational, accessible, and safe for the whole school community – kids, teachers and visitors,” McClinton said. “These grants show how state and local partners can work together on projects that will make our community more accessible, inclusive and safe so everyone is welcome.”
“Receiving this funding creates a tremendous opportunity for the schools in District 8. The funding will enhance our educational facilities, create safer and more effective learning environments, and provide educators with the necessary resources to inspire the next generation. Together, we are committed to building a brighter future for our community," Williams added.
William Penn School District reported that the total cost of the Bell Avenue Elementary project is more than $650,000, and that the district will contribute nearly $165,000 in matching funds. The state funding will be used to purchase and install the elevator and associated renovation costs. The project’s improved ADA compliance will reduce physical stress and injury for students and staff with mobility challenges and allow access to all building spaces.
The project cost for Penn Wood is more than $4.4 million, and the district will provide more than $1.1 million in matching funds. The school’s 61,000-square-foot roof is experiencing pooling water, leaks and is deteriorating in some areas. The new roof will eliminate minor leaks and water damage in classrooms and will improve air quality in the building by reducing the risk of airborne pathogens.
Both grants were awarded under the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program which was created to provide grants to public school districts and area career and technical schools foreligible facility improvement projects. It is administered by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development under the direction of the Commonwealth Financing Authority.