East Greenwich Twp. seeks $25.5 million for work on schools

East Greenwich Township school officials are asking voters to approve almost $25.5 million in construction through a referendum Tuesday, so two schools can be enlarged and renovated to accommodate growing enrollment.

Without the expansions, district officials estimate, one of every four students will be without a seat by 2013. The schools' combined enrollment is expected to reach 1,421, an increase of 510 over 2008.

Of the $25.5 million, $7 million would qualify for state reimbursement.

East Greenwich's is one of five school-construction referendums statewide, and the only one in South Jersey, that will go to a vote Tuesday. They total $81.7 million in spending.

In the Gloucester County district, the money would pay for 12 new classrooms and multiple renovations at Clark School. Mickle School would get 17 new classrooms, a new stage in the gymnasium, an expanded cafeteria, and several renovations.

Without the funds, district officials say, they will have to increase class sizes and repurpose classrooms now dedicated to art and music.

For a house assessed at $167,500, the township average, taxes would go up $229 a year if the ballot question is passed.