Voters decisively approved a $94.9 million referendum on March 11 to fund significant improvements to the Lawrence Township Public School District’s facilities. The vote helps pave the way the way for modernizing school buildings and enhancing educational opportunities.
The referendum, which passed with overwhelming community support, includes renovations to the 75-year-old Lawrence Middle School and the expansion needed to add the 6th grade into the building.
According to unofficial results fromt the Mercer County Clerk’s Office, the vote was 2,677 (59.6%) vs. 1,756 (40.40%) in favor of the measure. A total of 4,433 of the township’s 26,100 registered voters cast ballots—a turnout of 16.98%.
Voting in person were 2,676 residents, with 1,755 voting by mail.
Planned upgrades span several district facilities, addressing long-standing infrastructure needs and ensuring the schools meet the demands of 21st-century learning.
“This is an exciting moment for LTPS,” said Superintendent Dr. Robyn Klim. “We are creating a stronger academic experience for our students and ensuring our facilities meet the needs of 21st-century learning.”
She added: “This project will benefit generations of students to come, and we are incredibly grateful to our community for making it possible.”
The improvements include the addition of specialized learning spaces at LMS for science, art and life skills, along with enhanced facilities for special education, nurse and guidance services, and the child study team.
Upgrades will also focus on improving traffic flow, parking and security, including the installation of a secure visitor entrance.
District officials emphasized that safety and capital maintenance are key components of the project. Planned upgrades include roof replacements, asbestos abatement, kitchen renovations, and bathroom refurbishments across multiple schools.
Athletic fields, gymnasiums, and auditoriums will also see significant improvements, offering safer and more functional spaces for students, staff, and the community.
Lawrence Township School Board President Michele Bowes expressed appreciation for the community’s support.
“Our schools are the heart of our community, and this investment in our schools will have a lasting impact,” said Bowes. “We are profoundly appreciative of the community’s support in making this vision a reality.”
The measure is expected to raise annual school taxes by less than $350 for homeowners with properties assessed at the township’s average value of approximately $285,000.
With the referendum approved, LTPS will now begin the planning and implementation process. The district has pledged to keep the community informed throughout the project.
For more details about the referendum and next steps, visit www.ltps.org/referendum.
A architectural rendering of some of the improvements at the the Lawrence Middle School that are included in the school district's referendum on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.,
