What is the MSBA?

The Massachusetts School Building Authority ("MSBA") is a quasi-independent government authority created to reform the process of funding capital improvement projects in the Commonwealth's public schools. The MSBA strives to work with local communities to create affordable, sustainable, and energy efficient schools across Massachusetts.

The Legislature created the MSBA in 2004 to replace the former school building assistance program administered by the Department of Education (now the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education).

The MSBA, which has a dedicated revenue stream of one penny of the state's 6.25-% sales tax, is collaborating with municipalities to equitably invest in finding the right-sized, most fiscally responsible and educationally appropriate solutions to create safe, sound, and sustainable learning environments.

In its ten-year history, the MSBA has made more than $13 billion in reimbursements to cities, towns, and regional school districts for school construction projects. Instead of waiting years for reimbursement, districts now receive payments from the MSBA as costs are incurred, usually within 15 days of submitting a request through the MSBA's online Pro-Pay System. Please visit the MSBA website for more information.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Construction Manager, who is ours, and what do they do?
2. How much does the Smith School Project cost and how much has been spent to date?
3. Why does the Smith Elementary School need to be replaced?
4. Will enrollment at the Smith School increase?
5. Will the Town be completing a redistricting process to help address growing enrollment?
6. What is the Smith School Project at a glance?
7. What site was selected for the new Smith School, and why?
8. What does the project timeline look like?
9. How much will the project cost?
10. How will the Town pay for the new school and how much will it cost the tax payers?
11. Who is the architect for the Smith School project?
12. What is an Owner’s Project Manager, who is ours, and what do they do?
13. What is the MSBA?
14. How can I get involved and stay informed about the Smith School Project?