It seems like there has been construction going on in the Highland Falls-Fort Montgomery Central School District forever, but the work in all buildings is nearing completion this summer.

“The improvements remain focused on creating safer, more modern, and engaging learning environments for our students and staff,” Superintendent Michael McElduff said at last week’s Board of Education meeting. The projects are all part of a plan approved by voters in 2023.

The Fort Montgomery Elementary School is probably the most noticeable location of work.

“Significant milestones have been reached at FMES over the past month,” McElduff said. “Masonry work has been completed, and construction crews have begun demobilizing from the site. The building’s roof installation is now fully finished, and the rooftop units have been successfully set in place. Additionally, the entrance canopy has been framed, and the surrounding concrete sidewalks have been poured, contributing to the exterior completion of the new addition.”

He said with funds that were ‘left over’ from some of the other work, the entire interior of the FMES has been repainted. Also, flooring in the 1930’s section of the building has been replaced.

Inside the building, progress continues with new interior finishes such as ceilings, flooring, painting, and taping. Orange & Rockland has delivered the transformer for the site, and contractors are currently awaiting metering approval in order to schedule the power shutdown. Looking ahead, he said, Millburn Flooring has confirmed a start date of June 16.

At O’Neill High School and the Highland Falls Intermediate School, McElduff said the next phase – Phase 3 – of interior upgrades is well underway.

“The demolition of the HFIS boiler room has progressed steadily, and kitchen demolition work began this week and will continue into next week. Electrical and mechanical system removal has also started in both locations, making way for upcoming renovations.”

He said that allowing the contractor, Vinco, to start prior to school ending is proving to be helpful.

“They’re on track to complete the floor demolition in the kitchen areas by the end of next week, and all new kitchen components have been delivered,” he said.

McElduff again confirmed that pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, first and second grade students will return to the FMES for the 2025-26 school year. FMES Principal Jacqueline Rodriguez was perhaps the happiest at the meeting to hear that. “We have had a great experience at the HFIS this year,” she said, “but we’re ready to go home!”

In a little bit of bad news, McElduff reported that a burst pipe in the high school caused damage to the recently installed new floor in the gymnasium. About 40 percent of it had to be ripped up and replaced. It’s now been sealed so that the gym can be used through the end of the school year, but will be finalized over the summer break months.