New York Construction Report staff writer
The City of Yonkers has announced a capital investment of $5.8 million over the next three years to install air conditioning at all 39 public school buildings in the district.
“This investment in our school facilities is just as crucial as the funding for educational programs,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “Over the past decade, Yonkers has invested more than $300 million in upgrading our aging school infrastructure to provide the best possible learning environment for our students.
“This latest commitment underscores our ongoing dedication to enhancing every aspect of their educational experience.”
The announcement follows New York State legislation mandating air conditioning in all public school learning environments.
“With rising temperatures, air conditioning is no longer a luxury but a necessity for the well-being of students and staff,” Spano said. “I urge state officials to support this essential upgrade statewide.”
Yonkers Public Schools, many of which are over 75 years old and some as old as 100, are some of the oldest school buildings in New York State.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community School on Lawrence Street is set to open for the 2024-2025 academic year – the district’s first new school construction in 20 years. It was built by Piazza Inc., a Hawthorne contractor.
