$157M Referendum Outlines Improvements For Bridgewater-Raritan Schools

BRIDGEWATER, NJ - The Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District is planning a bond referendum to fund renovation projects and an expansion plan throughout the district, with a vote slated for March 14, according to documents on the district website.

The referendum will consist of two questions for school community members, both regarding tax impact. Question 1 probes capital/educational and facilities infrastructure projects, while Question 2 asks about a middle school addition (which would combine grades 6, 7 and 8 in the middle school, creating space in primary schools to implement a full day kindergarten program). The question will also propose renovations to the primary schools to accommodate kindergarten classrooms.

The renovations, at an estimated $118,014,003 (or $79,742,418 with state aid) would cost the average resident $0 per year. However, the estimated $39,071,027 in proposed additions (or $33,051,856 with state aid) would cost the average Raritan resident $84 more per year; that increase goes up to $111 for the average Bridgewater local.

“While the Board of Education and Administration have successfully addressed many facility needs over the years, the amount of work necessary cannot be completed within the operating budget,” the district said in a statement on its website. “CURRENT DEBT SERVICE AID PAYMENTS ARE ENDING and therefore, the new debt being assumed under the March Referendum, won’t be adding to an already existing debt.”

With current interest rates increasing, the district is aiming to secure the rates “while still somewhat reasonable,” it said, adding that up to 34% of debt service aid is available on eligible projects (resulting in projected millions of savings for the district).

Other renovations included in the referendum include new security measures (secure lockdown capabilities, secure vestibules at building entrances and new communications systems), fire alarm upgrades, asbestos flooring removal, toilet room renovations, roofing repairs, electrical replacements and more.

“Dealing with aging schools, some with original windows, doors, and other infrastructure items that have reached the end of their useful life expectancy,” the district said. “The proposed Referendum would provide much needed facilities upgrades and renovations that would allow our facilities to support an exciting and progressive curriculum.”

Over half a dozen meetings are scheduled (from Jan. 10 to Feb. 24) ahead of the vote. You can view the full meeting schedule here.

You can watch the full presentation of the proposed referendum projects below: