By Michael V. Cusenza
The State Senate on Monday approved a bill that would require county superintendents provide advanced written notice to school districts and nonpublic schools within the five boroughs of impending nearby construction projects, the legislation’s sponsor, Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) said.
According to Addabbo’s bill, notice must be given at least 14 days before commencing construction projects within a 300-foot radius of any building used for student instruction. The bill aims to ensure that schools are informed about nearby construction activities that could disrupt traffic to and from the school. This allows schools to plan accordingly to maintain safe access for students, teachers, and staff. The 14-day notification requirement does not apply in emergencies.
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Sen. Addabbo characterized the legislation as “both common sense and important.”
“My bill is both common sense and important. It ensures that all school districts are notified of nearby construction projects in advance, allowing necessary steps to maintain the safety and accessibility of school grounds,” the senator said. “By giving schools 14 days’ notice, we can also help avoid disruptions and ensure that students, parents, and faculty have safe, uninterrupted access to their schools.”
The bill, which is co-sponsored by Sens. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans), Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights), and Zellnor Myrie (D-Brooklyn), is now under consideration in the Assembly Transportation Committee.
