Trenton, NJ – Senator Brian P. Stack has introduced new legislation that would direct state funds to support construction and special education initiatives within the Union City School District. Senate Bill S5026, introduced December 22, proposes allocating up to $10 million from the New Jersey Debt Defeasance and Prevention Fund for parking facilities at Colin Powell Elementary School, along with an additional $3.25 million appropriation for high-cost special education services.
The measure seeks to reallocate a portion of funds previously appropriated to the New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) in 2022. That year, the Legislature approved $1.9 billion for school construction and maintenance projects across the state, including $1.55 billion dedicated to SDA districts identified as having special educational and infrastructure needs.
Under S5026, the Department of Education would receive a portion of those SDA funds to oversee the design, engineering, and construction of parking structures serving Colin Powell Elementary’s staff, students, and administrators. The bill directs the department to establish a grant agreement with Union City School District detailing how the funds will be distributed and monitored.
The legislation also includes a direct $3.25 million General Fund appropriation to assist Union City with costs associated with providing specialized education programs for high-need students.
Senator Stack, who represents the 33rd Legislative District in Hudson County, said the funding aims to strengthen Union City’s educational infrastructure while ensuring equitable access to services for students requiring additional support.
Senate Bill S5026 would provide up to $10 million for parking facilities at Colin Powell Elementary School and $3.25 million for special education services in Union City.