FORESTVILLE — The Forestville school community supported the district yet again Thursday night, as the district’s proposed Clean Green Energy Project passed by a dramatic margin. The vote was 167-19 in favor of the project, which will be funded thanks to New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) assistance.

Superintendent Dr. John O’Connor initially thought the project was “too good to be true”, but as the numbers lined up, the district moved forward with the proposal at no additional tax impact to district taxpayers. The cost of the project will be entirely covered thanks to a NYSERDA grant of $945,377, $100,000 in utility rebates, and roughly $6.4 million of New York State Building Aid.

The project consists of the installation of HVAC systems and mechanical upgrades throughout the district at a total cost of $7,466,977. New rooftop units will be installed at both schools to address heating, air conditioning, and air quality in classrooms, cafeterias, music rooms, and gymnasiums. Windows on the second and third floors of the Middle/High School will also be replaced to reduce energy loss, while electrical upgrades will improve efficiency, as well.

“This is an important step forward for our district as we continue to improve our facilities and energy efficiency,” O’Connor said.

The project received even more support than the initial capital project, which still passed by a sizable margin of 128-31. Between the two projects, the total amount of work surpasses $19 million, but no additional tax impact is required to fund the work.

The work is scheduled to begin at the end of the current school year and will result in more efficient heating and cooling systems throughout both schools. The other improvements stemming from the capital project that was already approved will be done in phases over the next two years. The district will share additional details and timelines as the information becomes available.