WORCESTER, Mass. - The Massachusetts School Building Authority voted unanimously Wednesday to approve a new building for Burncoat High School.

Worcester Public Schools has made a proposal for state funding 13 times ince 2008.

"This is important for the students up at Burncoat Senior High School, and also for the neighborhood" said Worcester Mayor Joe Petty. "The neighborhood's looking for something like this and some big investment up there. It's a beautiful space. We can do something really nice there."

Petty said he is unsure how much the project will cost but he expects it will be least $375 million, compared to $200 million for South High School and $300 million for Doherty High School. He said the Worcester School District will typically split school building costs 80% to 20% - with the city being responsible for 20%.

"Oh it's desperately needed," said Kathleen Harrity, whose grandchild attends Burncoat. "I don't think things have changed. I remember 20 years ago it looking the same way. And I know when it's hot, it's hot, and when the cold weather's here, it's cold. I know I've heard mold situations."

Burncoat High School, which was built in 1964, had to cancel all classes Tuesday to due issues with heating. The building also faced similar issues in September, when classes had to be dismissed early two straight days due to high heat.

Petty said it's vital for the community to invest in providing a healthy learning environment for students and staff.

"It makes a big impact," Petty said. "Plus, it keeps people in the city instead of moving out to the towns because they think they're getting a better education. But if you look at it, Worcester Public Schools offers a great education. We're improving our infrastructure so we're going to keep a lot of people here, especially in that Burncoat area."

Petty said the next steps will include going through the MSBA's eligibility process, as well as forming a committee to help with design plans. He said the project will likely start in the next two to three years and will take around five to seven years to complete.