Dear Putnam Valley Community:
On May 18, 2023, the Board of Education approved a resolution to create a Capital Improvement and Facilities Planning Committee to explore future capital improvement needs of the school district. This committee was composed of community members, teachers, parents, administrators, and members of our support staff. Committee members worked diligently for more than a year, reviewing documents, touring buildings, and meeting with architects and financial advisors before finally deciding on a scope of work that would be recommended to the Board of Education. Project updates and presentations were conducted during public meetings on June 20, 2024, and October 29, 2024. The Board of Education passed a resolution allowing for the creation of a $14,000,000 facilities project proposition that will be voted on by the community on January 28, 2025.
The Facilities Planning Committee remained dedicated to proposing a project that addressed critical infrastructure needs, improved academic spaces, addressed the needs of our cultural arts and athletics program, and offered the district long-term savings through the implementation of sustainable energy sources (solar & geothermal); all at no additional cost to the taxpayer.
By utilizing a combination of New York State Building Aid, District Capital Reserve Funds, and Retiring Debt, all of this work can be accomplished without any additional cost to the taxpayer. In fact, we are projecting that approximately $9,280,0000 will be covered by State Aid, $2,500,000 will be expended from the District’s already established Capital Reserve Fund, and the remaining portion of the project will be offset by the retiring debt the district will no longer need to pay.
The proposed project includes the following highlights:
Elementary School – Renovate the existing library into a modern innovative learning space, install playground equipment for K-2 students to increase and improve accessibility, expand and upgrade the nurse’s suite, and complete the full integration of geothermal heating and cooling. Upgrade performing arts lighting and controls.
Middle School – Improve and resurface the parking lot area focusing on pedestrian safety, bus traffic, lighting, and improved water drainage. Create new small group instructional spaces and offices, freeing up full-size classrooms. Replace outdated HVAC equipment that will allow for more efficient heating and cooling. Upgrade performing arts lighting and controls.
High School – Replace the failing parking lot retaining wall, improve and resurface the parking lot, improve water management and drainage, install solar panels, and replace the original flat roofs. Provide accessible access to the high school courtyard and outdoor learning space. Renovate the existing weight room into a modern fitness center and dance studio.
A referendum will be placed before voters on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. The polls will be open from 6 am – 9 pm at Putnam Valley Elementary School.
We will hold a community forum on Thursday, December 12 in the high school library at PVHS to share details and answer any questions. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. To join virtually, please visit pvcsd.org or click here. Be sure to visit our website where you will find more information about the project click here. We will continue to update this site with additional information.
Thank you,
Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools
Five Fast Financial Facts
FAQ Document
Facilities Project 2024