Chiquita Wildwood proposes $9M capital project for school renovations and support center

A significant capital project proposal took center stage at the Depew UFSD Board Meeting on May 14, 2025, with plans for a $9 million investment aimed at enhancing school facilities. Dubbed Capital Project 2025, the initiative seeks to address unfinished renovations from a previous project, focusing on critical upgrades across the district.

Key improvements include renovating bathrooms in the middle and high schools, adding air conditioning, resurfacing the track—which has not been updated since 2011—upgrading parking lots, and restoring the bus garage roof. Additionally, the project proposes aesthetic upgrades to the high school pool and the decommissioning of the cogeneration plant. A notable highlight is the establishment of a family support center at Cugo Heights Elementary, designed to better serve the community's needs.

The timeline for the project is ambitious, with design phases expected to begin this summer, aiming for SCD review and approval by fall 2025. Construction could commence in spring 2026, with minimal tax impact anticipated for local homeowners—estimated increases of just over $12 for properties assessed at $100,000.

In addition to the capital project, the board discussed the sale of a small parcel of land behind the middle school, which is expected to facilitate new development and generate funds for the district's general fund. The meeting also addressed upcoming board elections, with four seats available, including three for three-year terms and one for a two-year term.

As the budget vote approaches on May 20, 2025, community members are encouraged to participate and voice their opinions on these pivotal developments that promise to enhance educational facilities and support for families in the Depew school district.