Kate Farrar

HARTFORD — State Representatives Kate Farrar (D-West Hartford, Newington) and Gary Turco (D-Newington, New Britain), and State Senator Matt Lesser (D-Cromwell, Middletown,  Newington, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield) welcome the allocation of $6,277,283 for the renovation of John Wallace Middle School in Newington, approved by the School Construction Project Priority List Review Committee on Wednesday.

The funding is to demolish and rebuild the interior spaces of three wings in a new configuration of John Wallace Middle School to optimize functionality and meet the needs of 21st-century education.

One vital aspect of this project is to enhance security measures. New security doors will be installed to improve safety within the school premises. The project will also include upgrades to the HVAC and electrical systems.

"This investment is set to transform the educational experience for our Newington students and teachers," said Rep. Farrar. "I am proud to support this project to modernize our school facilities and ensure that all of Newington students have access to a safe and conducive learning environment."

“Wednesday’s vote by the School Construction Project Priority List Review Committee was an important step in the process for the John Wallace Middle School renovation,” said Rep. Turco. “This project is essential to our community, and I am committed to ensuring it reaches the finish line with votes in the House and Senate and a signature from Governor Lamont by the time the 2024 legislative session ends in May.” 

“I am so pleased that we have secured support for a 58.57% reimbursement rate for the school construction project at John Wallace Middle School, saving taxpayers over $6 million," said Sen. Lesser. "This grant will help offset the cost of much needed repairs to improve security, technology, and classroom size."

The John Wallace Middle School renovation project was approved by Newington voters in a referendum vote in the November 2023 election. This approval by the School Construction Project Priority List Review Committee is the next step in the process to secure state funding for the renovation. The project now awaits a vote in the House, Senate, and final signature by the Governor during the 2024 legislative session which ends May 8th.