A Centre County school district has approved a multi-million dollar renovation project that will lead to an increase in taxes for some residents.

At a cost of more than $25 million, the Bald Eagle Area School District superintendent said the renovations are long overdue and worthwhile for both students and taxpayers.

Superintendent Dan Fisher said students, teachers, parents and taxpayers conducted interviews with architects and worked together to decide what projects were the most important.

---

Visit Our Centre County News Page

---

The group decided about half of the money will be spent on deferred maintenance projects like replacing the roof and modifying the building to make it easier for those with disabilities.

Another $6 million will be spent on projects that will lead to energy conservation and savings on bills. Fisher said they started with a $50 million wish list and cut that down to a $25 million "need list."

Fisher said the longer they wait to do the renovations and additions, the higher the price tag will become for construction costs.

The district estimated the state will reimburse them for about 40 percent of the costs. Fisher said the tax increase will be around 3 or 4 percent, which is below the state's allowed increase.

Officials said they expect the renovations to be complete within two to three years.