Facilities update: Pennsbury outlines timeline for new high school and second synthetic turf field amid public concern about partnership and costs

The Pennsbury School District facilities committee briefed the board on several capital projects and timelines and answered questions about partnerships and long‑term maintenance costs.

In the committee report, staff said contracts for a second synthetic turf field have been issued with work expected to begin in March 2025 and final completion anticipated by August 2025. The committee also reported that punch‑list work for phases 1–4 at Charles Bain (Charles Bain Middle School) continues and that phase 5 auditorium renovation work will begin shortly with a 2025 completion target.

Facilities staff noted the district recently had testing of underground diesel and gasoline tanks at the administration building; the tests were described as "good," but the tanks were "at or nearing the end of their useful life" and replacement planning or maintenance agreements should be considered.

Public comment at the same meeting raised objections to a proposed partnership with an outside youth soccer organization reported in local media. A public commenter, Robert Abrams, cited reporting that the partnership would include an upfront payment and annual fees; he said, "It's a 100,000 upfront and 14,000 a year for the next 14 years," and warned that taxpayers could shoulder replacement costs for turf fields in the longer term.

Facilities also reported that the district's second security camera project is out to bid, with bids due March 4, 2025, and that permits for an administration server‑room upgrade have been submitted and a preconstruction meeting scheduled.

The board did not take final action on the YMS partnership during the meeting; the issue was raised in public comment and flagged for additional transparency and discussion.

Next steps: staff will continue the capital projects schedule and follow up on partnership and contract questions raised during public comment.