School Board proposes $2.5M for repairs and improvements across district facilities

In the bustling heart of Salem City Hall, the City Council Committee on Administration and Finance convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss a series of critical capital improvement requests that could shape the future of local schools and community facilities. As council members settled into their seats, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation over the proposed projects aimed at enhancing educational environments and public spaces.

At the forefront of the discussions was a significant request for the replacement of the gym floor at Horace Mann School. Described as one of the worst in the district, the current rubber floor is in dire need of repair. The proposed upgrade not only promises to improve the experience for students but also opens the door for the school to rent out the gym space, generating additional revenue for the district.

The committee also reviewed a request for $250,000 to repaint several school buildings, including Horace Mann and Saltonstall. This initiative aims to establish a regular rotation for painting, ensuring that the facilities remain fresh and welcoming for students each summer. The need for upkeep is evident, as many buildings have not received a comprehensive repainting in years.

Playgrounds and outdoor spaces were another focal point, with a particular emphasis on Bertram Field and its track, which have fallen into disrepair. The committee acknowledged the importance of maintaining safe and functional recreational areas for children, highlighting the need for repairs to the track and locker room facilities.

Additionally, the council discussed a roof replacement for Bates Elementary School, which has been selected for the Massachusetts School Building Authority's accelerated repair program. The estimated cost after reimbursement stands at $988,000, a necessary investment to ensure the safety and comfort of students.

Other significant requests included $750,000 for essential upgrades to electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems across various schools, particularly addressing urgent repairs at Carleton School. The committee also reviewed a $550,000 technology upgrade plan, aimed at replacing outdated devices and enhancing learning tools for both students and staff.

As the meeting progressed, council members were encouraged to ask questions and engage in discussions about these vital projects. The outcome of these requests will be voted on during the upcoming council meeting on June 11, marking a pivotal moment for Salem's educational infrastructure.

With the potential for improved facilities and resources, the council's decisions in the coming weeks will undoubtedly impact the community's educational landscape, fostering a better environment for learning and growth. As the meeting adjourned, the sense of urgency and commitment to the city's future was palpable, leaving residents hopeful for the enhancements that lie ahead.