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Design firm says NYSERDA opportunity could leverage up to $44 million for district facilities

Albany City School District Board of Education · January 10, 2026
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Summary

SEI Design Group briefed the board on the required building condition survey and utilization study and described a $10.8 million NYSERDA award that could be leveraged to support roughly $44 million in capital improvements targeting cafeterias, gymnasiums, auditoriums, secure vestibules and energy upgrades.

Consultants from SEI Design Group told the board the district's building condition survey (BCS) and utilization study are the technical groundwork for a future capital project and a possible public vote. They explained the BCS required by NYSED catalogs needs across systems (mechanical, electrical, plumbing, finishes) and the utilization study maps who uses each space.

SEI said the district is pursuing a NYSERDA grant that would cover the local share and enable an estimated $44 million package of improvements; the firm framed that as a rare opportunity to accelerate equity upgrades across the district. “Given that funding, there is an opportunity for you to do up to around a $44,000,000 project,” an SEI representative told the board.

The consultants outlined an accelerated schedule to meet NYSERDA and referendum deadlines if the board moves forward — community engagement in February, scope finalization in March and public notice by April 1 for a potential May vote.

Board members asked how theatrical equipment, playgrounds, green space, and office uses would be handled in the utilization study. SEI confirmed those components will be reviewed and that students and building‑level stakeholders will be engaged in the planning process.

Next steps: SEI will continue building‑level meetings and community outreach in February, refine project ranking and scope with the Facilities Committee, and return with recommendations for any referendum timeline.