Northern Lehigh School District has received a sizable state grant for asbestos removal and flooring upgrades at its high school.

The Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development awarded the district a $904,350 Public Schools Facility Improvement Grant.

This funding, which is the third largest awarded in Lehigh County, represents the highest percentage of requested funds by a district in the region and will enable essential health and aesthetic upgrades in the high school.

Superintendent Dr. Matthew J. Link said congratulations goes to district Director of Operations Christopher Mann, whose first application for a state grant proved successful.

“Thanks to his diligent work and strategic approach, the district can move forward with extensive improvements that would otherwise strain local resources,” Link said.

Link said the grant, applied for in May, will fund the removal of approximately 49,000 square feet of asbestos-mastic tile and the installation of new epoxy flooring throughout the high school.

While the asbestos beneath the current flooring remains safely sealed beneath the tiles, the planned updates are a proactive approach to ensuring safety, Link said. Non-asbestos flooring areas, including ceramic tiles on the first floor, will remain untouched, he said.

Link said Mann is exploring the potential for a complete flooring replacement, ensuring a cohesive and modern look across the facility.

“This project is not just for today’s students but for generations to come,” Mann said. “The board’s dedication to our schools shows a long-term vision for maintaining a safe and effective learning environment.”