Frequently Asked Questions
Why do we need a new Beecher Road School building?
The current facility has served our community since the 1960s and faces mounting challenges, including:
• Aging infrastructure characterized by end of useful life structural elements and mechanical systems.
• Out-of-date classroom configurations that do not provide the space needed for current curriculum and programming.
• Inadequate room to accommodate projections of approximately 100 more learners in our school over the next several years.
The building also lacks ADA compliance, energy efficiency, ways to enhance student and faculty security, and the means to offer Pre-K to more Woodbridge families.
Why is constructing a new Beecher Road School building the preferable option?
The Infrastructure Upgrade Building Committee started by developing Woodbridge’s first Education Specification Study in over a quarter century to determine our educational and programmatic space requirements. This was accompanied by a Feasibility Study to understand our options for creating the needed educational spaces.
The Committee then considered concept plans and associated cost estimates for (1) maintaining the current facility, (2) renovating with additions to the current facility, and (3) constructing a new building. Following a rigorous review process, the Committee determined that constructing a new facility was the only solution that fully addressed all three challenges and was the most cost-effective option.
Where will a new Beecher Road School building be located?
On the North Playground of the Beecher campus. This allows for uninterrupted use of our current facility during construction. After students relocate to the new facility, the old facility will be replaced with sports and recreational areas for students and community members to enjoy.
Who decides whether to construct a new Beecher Road School building?
You and other Woodbridge residents, in a referendum to be conducted this Fall. Once the Board of Selectman establishes the referendum date, we will share that information broadly throughout our community—supported by the final estimate for the project cost and anticipated State grant reimbursement.
What will it cost to construct a new Beecher Road School building?
Construction experts working with the Town of Woodbridge are finalizing cost estimates, including expenses for construction of the new building, demolition of the old building, creation of new recreational areas, landscaping, furnishings, and other related expenses. We will share the final estimate with you as soon as it is ready. Once finalized, the estimated cost will be posted on the website and in the next newsletter.
We also anticipate that a substantial share of the cost of constructing a new building will be reimbursed by the State of Connecticut. The Board of Selectman has authorized the submission of a grant application to the State. However, this does not obligate Woodbridge to move forward with the project.
