The Greater Amsterdam School District is proposing a $12 million capital project at Amsterdam High School that would focus on improvements to student dining spaces and outdoor athletic facilities.
The proposal will appear on the ballot during the annual school budget vote on May 19. District officials have indicated that the project is not expected to result in a tax increase and would be eligible for approximately 95% building aid through the New York State Education Department.
Superintendent Richard Ruberti said the project is designed to support both student needs and long-term facility improvements.
“This project includes a wide range of upgrades that will benefit students and staff,” Ruberti said.
The district plans to fund the project through a combination of up to $7 million in bonds and up to $5 million from its capital reserve fund. State building aid would reimburse a significant portion of the cost over time.
Board of Education President Rev. Kent McHeard said the approach reflects a commitment to maintaining facilities without increasing the tax burden.
“We want to continue making improvements while being mindful of our taxpayers,” McHeard said.
The Board of Education recently completed required steps under the State Environmental Quality Review Act, allowing the capital project proposition to move forward for voter consideration. The proposal was developed based on findings from the district’s five-year building condition survey.
Cafeteria and kitchen upgrades
A major component of the project includes renovations to the high school cafeteria and kitchen. The updates are intended to support ongoing efforts to enhance the school meal program and improve the overall dining experience for students.
Since the district partnered with Capital Region BOCES for food service in fall 2024, participation in school meals has increased among both students and staff. District officials said the proposed upgrades would allow for expanded food preparation and service areas, creating additional options for students.
Preliminary plans include a more open layout with multiple serving stations, such as areas for hot meals, salads, breakfast items and grab-and-go selections.
The project would also include the installation of dishwashing equipment, allowing the district to transition from disposable items to reusable dishes and utensils. Officials said this change would help reduce waste.
The cafeteria space itself would be modernized with a variety of seating options and the addition of sound-absorbing materials to help manage noise levels during lunch periods.
Athletic field and drainage improvements
The proposal also includes the installation of two synthetic turf fields on school property near the main parking lot. The project would address longstanding drainage issues that have limited use of the existing grassy areas.
Plans call for a larger multi-purpose field that could accommodate soccer, lacrosse and baseball, along with a smaller field designated for softball. The area would include sidewalks, fencing, safety netting, dugouts and spectator seating.
District officials said the turf fields would also support physical education classes and allow for increased use by students and community groups throughout the year. The addition of a dedicated softball field would provide equitable opportunities for student-athletes.
While field lighting is not included in the current scope, infrastructure such as conduits and wiring would be installed to allow for potential future upgrades.
Ruberti said improving drainage and installing turf would allow for more consistent use of the space.
“This gives our softball players access to a comparable facility,” he said.
Additional grassy areas surrounding the turf fields would remain available for recreational use.
Property planning and community partnerships
The capital project proposal also includes components related to district property planning and long-term use of district-owned assets.
District officials are exploring future development opportunities for the Marie Curie property, with a focus on identifying uses that align with community needs while maximizing the value of the site. Officials noted the potential for increased tax revenue through future development.
In addition, the district continues to work with Head Start at its Truax Road location and is considering a potential transition from a lease agreement to a sale of the property. Officials said the approach would support continued early childhood programming in the community while reducing long-term maintenance responsibilities for the district.
Timeline and next steps
If approved by voters, construction on the athletic fields is expected to begin in the fall, with completion anticipated by the following spring. Cafeteria renovations are tentatively scheduled for summer 2027 to minimize disruption during the school year.
District officials said additional discussions regarding community use of athletic facilities may take place in the future as related improvements are completed across the district.