Air/Environment Quality and Clean Energy Project

Project Overview

Today’s investment in healthy, efficient schools and infrastructure is tomorrow’s savings in healthcare, energy, and repairs.

***We welcome any questions regarding the Air/Environment Quality and Clean Energy Project and the Proposition 2 1/2 Debt Exclusion - please share those questions here.***

Aging infrastructure and continuous use have created pressing needs across our schools. This project will address those challenges to ensure our facilities remain safe, high-performing learning environments—and lasting assets that serve students and the broader community for years to come.

Protect Facilities – by addressing the building envelope and preventing further deterioration of our buildings.

Reduce Costs – by improving energy efficiency and minimizing anticipated repair expenses.

Ensure Safety – by creating healthy, well-maintained spaces for students and staff.

Enhance Learning – by delivering environments that support student success and reflect the quality education our community values.

Delaying these necessary improvements risks greater facility damage, increased safety concerns, and higher long-term costs. This plan is a proactive step to preserve our schools, protect our investment, and support the future of our students and community.

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) Improvements

  • Improve indoor comfort and humidity control at Acushnet Elementary School with upgraded HVAC systems and controls

    • Repair and replace outdated equipment and components

    • Improve indoor air and environmental quality through advanced dehumidification strategies

    • Implement Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) heat pump technology for efficient heating and cooling

    • Upgrade electrical and structural infrastructure to support current and future equipment needs

Building Management System (BMS) Upgrade

  • Implement controls to manage and schedule equipment and provide visibility into maintenance issues

    • Achieve full integration and centralized visibility of all buildings through a single web-based system, enhancing operations, management, and control

    • Replace outdated controllers

    • Upgrade failed ancillary equipment, including valves, dampers, actuators, and more

    • Essential for maximizing incentive payments from Eversource and operational performance

Building Envelope Improvements

  • Address poor building envelope conditions and improve Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) by reducing air infiltration and exfiltration through cracks and gaps in the exterior.

    • Controls temperature and humidity for a more comfortable indoor environment

    • Prevents the entry of pollutants, allergens, and outside contaminants, improving IAQ

    • Increases energy efficiency by reducing heating and cooling requirements

Duct Sealing

  • Sealing Extended Duct Runs with Advanced Pressure-Monitored Sealant Technologies

    • Drastically reduces air leakage from ducts, offering the following benefits:

    • Eliminates condensation in unconditioned spaces caused by leaked cold air

    • Minimizes energy loss from hot and cold air leakage into unconditioned areas

    • Ensures more efficient delivery of conditioned air into intended spaces

Air Purification

  • Central Air Purification Solution with Powered Active Filters

    • Eliminates the need for room-by-room air purifiers and associated maintenance tasks

    • Offers more efficient air purification (treats all air passing through the central HVAC system, not just room air), achieving MERV-14 equivalent performance

    • Utilizes existing filter space in HVAC systems, freeing up valuable space in classrooms