State Grant Could Eat Big Portion of RHS Library Renovation Costs

State grants could cover up to 40 percent of the price tag for the upcoming Ridgewood High School library renovation project.

According to Ridgewood Business Administrator Angelo DeSimone, the district has formally applied to take part in a $400 million state-wide grant program that could fund up to 30-40 percent of the total costs, projected at around $1.1 million.

The deadline for the state grant is Sept. 4. DeSimone said he's "90 percent confident" Ridgewood will receive the grant.

"This opportunity just fell into our lap," commented Superintendent Dan Fishbein.

While the grant would be a clear financial boon, it does mean construction will not take place until after the summer. School board members recently rejected the first set of bids and the second round is expected in a few months.

The proposed project envisions a library geared more toward 21st century learning than a repository of books and wooden desks. Among its projected uses are as a multimedia center, reading room, study hall, and social room.

Ridgewood's school board has agreed to fund $400,000, with private fundraising and a $100,000 grant from the Ridgewood Education Foundation meeting other expected costs.

Correction: The REF grant figure was misstated.