Bennington’s Old High School to Get a New Lease on Life with $1 Million Federal Grant
In an ambitious move to breathe new life into the heart of Bennington, a significant announcement was made by U.S. Rep. Becca Balint during her recent visit to the town. A federal grant of $1 million will be injected into the redevelopment of the former Bennington High School, marking a pivotal moment for the community’s revitalization efforts. This grant signifies a crucial piece of funding towards transforming the disused 100,000-square-foot building into a vibrant, multi-use facility that promises to benefit the community in numerous ways.
The comprehensive redevelopment plan aims to repurpose the massive space to house various community-centric services and programs. The blueprint for the transformation includes adding housing units to address local accommodation needs, providing spaces for municipal services to operate more efficiently, and featuring areas dedicated to nonprofit programming to support the community. This multi-faceted approach is designed to foster a sense of community and belonging among residents, while also offering practical solutions to local needs.
With an estimated total project cost hovering between $41 million and $42 million, the financial logistics of such an extensive overhaul are complex. However, the burden on Bennington taxpayers will be alleviated thanks to the involvement of Hale Resources, LLC, which has committed to covering the overage costs. This partnership underscores a collaborative effort towards sustainable community development and fiscal responsibility.
Another exciting component of the project is the planned relocation of the Bennington Senior Center into the revamped facility. This move is expected to offer better accessibility and more comprehensive services to the senior community. Additionally, the inclusion of childcare and recreational activities within the facility’s blueprint is aimed at creating a more inclusive and family-friendly environment, thereby enhancing the quality of life for all Bennington residents.
The federal funding, secured through the efforts of Rep. Balint, is a testament to the collaborative spirit between federal, local, and private entities working towards the common goal of revitalizing Bennington. This project not only promises to transform a once-idle building into a bustling center of community activity but also stands as a beacon of progress and communal unity.