Lehighton Area School District approved a comprehensive generator replacement project for the high school following damage caused by a bird strike that knocked out power last June, according to district documents.

The school board approved a motion Monday to accept a proposal from Albarell Electric, Inc. for a replacement generator system at the high school “in the amount of $116,145, with an additional $16,500 should a gas line be required, and a supply chain surcharge as of May 7 for $6,500.”

The project stems from an incident on June 9, 2024, when “the high school power line was struck by a bird and a claim was submitted for insurance,” according to district documentation explaining the rationale for the replacement.

The insurance settlement provided significant coverage for the project. According to the district’s documentation, the insurance coverage totaled $67,305.36, broken down as follows: a like-kind-quality unit for $30,000, transportation costs of $5,000, safety enhancements worth $7,500, generator rental fees of $2,285.36, and code upgrades totaling $22,520. After subtracting a $2,500 deductible, the net insurance settlement was $65,520.36.

The new system, according to the district, represents a substantial upgrade from the previous equipment. The project will replace the existing diesel generator with a natural gas-powered unit while relocating the equipment outside for improved safety.

Albarell Electric’s comprehensive scope of work includes multiple components including installing a 100KW 480-volt natural gas generator.

Physical installation requirements include installing a concrete pad for the generator and supplying and installing “conduit/wire for the generator and transfer switches.”

The district’s financial commitment, after applying the insurance settlement, amounts to $73,624.64. According to the rationale document, “the order of the generator and installation is targeted for summer while school is not in session.”

District officials emphasized the importance of completing the project promptly, stating, “a new generator will eliminate concerns with safety and fuel source.” The documentation notes that the project “is being brought forward after the final insurance determination last month to ensure there is emergency electricity in the 2025-26 school year.”

The equipment carries a standard Kohler warranty of one year, according to the proposal.

Albarell, district officials said, responded immediately to assess the damage when the original incident occurred in June 2024.