SCC, Bloomfield Educators Break Ground
For Bloomfield High School Expansion

Bloomfield, NJ (December 11, 2003) - New Jersey Schools Construction Corporation (SCC) and Bloomfield School District officials held a groundbreaking ceremony today to mark the start of construction of a new addition and renovations to Bloomfield High School. The morning event was attended by educators, state and local officials and community leaders.

Jasime Pai President, Key Club

Anthony Marino, Essex County Superintendent

The SCC is providing an $18.1 million grant toward the project as part of the State's $8.6 billion school construction program. The overall cost of the project is $58 million.

The project calls for additions - totaling 163,557 square feet - to the north and southeastern ends of the 1,800-student Bloomfield High School and extensive renovations to the 307,344-square-foot existing building at 160 Broad Street in this Essex County community. The project includes the addition of five general classrooms, 14 science labs, computer rooms and an art exhibition area; new regular and auxiliary gymnasiums, locker and fitness training rooms and storage area; a new kitchen and support services facility and faculty dining area; and centralized administrative offices.

"This school project in Bloomfield represents New Jersey's continued commitment to our children. We are living up to our most important obligation by providing 21st century facilities to ensure every child has the opportunity to get the education they deserve and the skills necessary to start school," said Governor McGreevey.

Thomas J. Dowd Superintendent of Schools

George Strachan, Director, SCC Communications

"The state is committed to improving school facilities for New Jersey students in a cost-effective, streamlined and efficient manner. School buildings must be designed to provide access to modern technology and a thoughtful environment which is conducive to student achievement," Governor McGreevey added.

Thomas J. Dowd, Superintendent of Schools, stated, "This new addition and renovation will accommodate our increasing enrollment while providing our students, faculty and community with a state-of-the-art facility and comprehensive educational program. Bloomfield High School has a strong tradition and history. This project is more than brick and mortar - it is about the Bengal spirit."

John F. Spencer, CEO of the SCC, noted, "The addition and renovations to Bloomfield High School are the latest examples of the progress made in implementing New Jersey 's historic school construction initiative. They are representative of the many quality school facilities that will be built throughout the state under the educational facilities law."

Under the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act, the SCC is responsible for school projects throughout the State. The program is the largest public construction program ever undertaken by the State of New Jersey and represents one of the largest programs of its type ever undertaken in the nation.

Bloomfield High School Madrigals
Raymond McCarthy, Mayor, Township of Bloomfield	Congressman William J. Pascrell, Jr.

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