NORTHAMPTON —The trustees of the Smith College recently received a $45.7 million tax-exempt bond from MassDevelopment to complete an array of campus renovation projects.
The college will use bond proceeds to renovate its HVAC and air-handling systems at the Burton and Sabin-Reed science buildings, renovate the HVAC system at Sage Hall, replace a combustion turbine to be used for backup power generation, make accessibility upgrades to various campus buildings, complete stabilization work along the bank of the Mill River and repair Lamont Bridge.
MassDevelopment, the state’s development finance agency and land bank, previously supported Smith College with an approximately $88 million tax-exempt bond in 2007 for construction of a science and engineering building and renovations to the Neilson Library and student residence halls.
Eric Paley, chair of MassDevelopment’s board of directors, said that the financing will help Smith invest in its campus and ensure it continues to serve generations of students and faculty for years to come.
“Smith College is grateful for the continued support of MassDevelopment,” said David DeSwert, executive vice president for finance and administration at Smith College. “This financing helps us make critical investments in our campus infrastructure — from modernizing science building systems to preserving natural landmarks like the Mill River.
DeSwert said the projects will strengthen the college’s operational sustainability and enhance the daily living and learning environment for the entire community.
During FY2025, MassDevelopment has financed or managed 409 projects generating investment of more than $4.65 billion in the Massachusetts economy. These projects are estimated to create or support 25,246 jobs and build or preserve 2,867 housing units.
