Thanks to the overwhelming support of South Colonie voters in October 2022, the district’s Capital Project is well underway, and this summer marks a critical period of visible transformation.

From high-impact structural improvements to modernized learning and athletic spaces, progress is being made across the district. Construction crews, engineers, and facilities staff have been hard at work this summer bringing the community’s vision to life.

“The progress we’re seeing across our schools this summer is a direct result of the incredible support from our South Colonie community,” said Assistant Superintendent for Management Services and Strategic Planning Jacqlene McAllister. “From safer, more modern learning environments to enhanced athletic and performance spaces, these upgrades are investments in our students and their future. We’re grateful to our school community for making this possible and excited to see many of these projects come to completion. While construction continues this summer, we’re also hard at work behind the scenes planning for Stage 3, which will include a state-of-the-art transportation center and other continued upgrades across the district.”

Concession Stand Nears Completion

One of the transformations on the high school campus that will complete the turf complex is the concession stand. The building’s metal roof is now complete, along with fascia and soffits. Inside, flooring is being cleaned, ceiling tiles are going up, and kitchen equipment is being assembled. Safety systems and secure door access controls are also being wired in, bringing the space closer to being game-day ready for the fall season.

Modernized Locker Rooms & Fitness Spaces

Inside the MUG (Multi-Use Gym), both boys’ and girls’ locker rooms are undergoing a full-scale transformation. New ductwork, heating systems, and plumbing are being installed, while masonry crews build new walls and frame out modern entrances. This area will offer improved facilities to support student-athletes, physical education classes, and wellness initiatives.

Athletic Trainer Suite & Pit Locker Rooms

In the basement of Colonie Central High School, a fresh coat of epoxy flooring has been applied in the PIT locker rooms and the new Athletic Trainer Suite. Ceiling grids are in place, wall painting is underway, and installation of fire alarm and safety systems is complete. These improvements will provide safe, high-functioning spaces for athletic training and recovery.

Classroom Improvements 

In the academic core, F-Wing classrooms (English and Social Studies)  at the high school are being reimagined with new teaching walls, updated ceilings, and exterior window upgrades. Abatement work is nearly finished, and framing is underway to create spaces that are safer, brighter, and more conducive to student engagement.

Shaker Road Elementary will see transformation of six classrooms, fully renovated nurse’s suite, upgraded secured vestibule, and new windows throughout for energy efficiency and safety. Abatement is complete in the classrooms, with full demolition taking place.  

Continued Progress at Lisha Kill and Veeder Elementary

At Lisha Kill Middle School, work continues to move swiftly. Abatement has been completed in the nurse’s suite, with demolition now underway to prepare the space for a full renovation. In the boys’ and girls’ locker rooms, plumbing and electrical demolition are in progress, along with the start of abatement in those areas. Outdoors, sidewalk preparation is 90% complete, and a new stormwater line has already been installed to improve drainage and campus safety. New sidewalks are also taking shape, with 70% of the concrete work now finished.

Meanwhile, at Veeder Elementary, preparations for the new library and classroom wing are well underway. Temporary lighting and power have been installed, underground plumbing is in progress, and sawcutting of the existing slab is complete. Above-ceiling condensate piping has begun in the corridor, and asbestos containment is in place for scheduled abatement work. These upgrades are critical first steps in delivering more functional and flexible learning spaces for students.

Lisha Kill’s Auditorium Renovation Hits the Final Act

The Lisha Kill auditorium is undergoing a major transformation to enhance both visual appeal and acoustic performance. Eight of the nine millwork ceiling “clouds” have now been installed, and the remaining panels are acclimated and ready for final placement. Uplighting has been added to two more finished clouds, adding warmth and dimension to the space. Work on the stage ramp continues, with 90% of the decorative Fundermax panels already in place. With these final touches coming together, the upgraded auditorium is poised to become a standout venue for student performances, assemblies, and community events.

Looking Ahead

This summer’s construction marks just one phase of the long-term vision for South Colonie’s schools. With upgrades ranging from learning environments to athletic spaces and infrastructure, each improvement is a direct investment in our students’ futures.

Stay tuned for continued updates, photo galleries, and behind-the-scenes looks as the work continues. 

Thank you to our community for making this possible—we’re building something great, together.