Public schools in Astoria will receive millions for infrastructure improvements and new additions like a film studio and science lab.
Councilman Costa Constantinides and Queens Borough President Melinda Katz announced that they are allocating nearly $3.7 million to the School Construction Authority for a number of enhancements.
Young Women’s Leadership School of Astoria at 23-15 Newtown Ave. will receive $375,000 for a new educational film studio. P.S. 300 at 28-37 29 St. will receive a new science lab with a $500,000 allocation from Katz and $300,000 will go toward renovating the bathrooms at I.S. 141.
“I am proud to have partnered with Borough President Katz to invest almost $3.7 million in our most important resource, our children,” Constantinides said. “Our investment this year includes more advanced technology and studying tools. New and improved school infrastructure will help encourage students to spend more time studying and learning while enjoying their overall school experience.”
The councilman, who is the chair of the committee on environmental protection, allocated $1.1 million for solar panels at P.S.122. It will be the first school in Astoria to install solar panels.
Students at P.S. 84 and I.S. 126 will receive $160,000 for hydroponic science labs. They’ll learn about hydroponics, a method that allows people to grow plants in a water-based solution rather than soil. Students will also learn how biology, agriculture, technology and nutrition intersect.
Nearly $900,000 was allocated to update technology in all Astoria public schools and $200,000 will upgrade the lunchroom at P.S. 122. Originally constructed as a gymnasium, the walls of the cafeteria consist of exposed brick and concrete, amplifying loud sounds.
“Queens has some of the best schools in the state, but to continue their success our schools need to have first-class facilities that will enable our children to reach their full potential,” Katz said in a statement. “This capital investment of millions of dollars will go a long way toward ensuring our kids learn in facilities with modern laboratories and studios, with up-to-date technology and with the quality playground space.”
