WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - West Springfield is one step closer to getting a new elementary school. The Massachusetts School Building Authority notified the school department their funding application has moved to the next phase. The proposed new elementary school would combine the john Ashley school with the John R. Fausey Elementary School. The John Ashley School was built in 1952 and the Fausey School was built in 1960. Both facilities are at capacity and have aging infrastructure that is not ADA-compliant. The next step in the process will be a feasibility study. Local News Headlines Advocacy groups threaten lawsuit for the legislature Proposed lithium battery energy storage facility in Westfield sparks concerns from city councilors Officials warn of holiday tree and candle fire risks Experts warn ice is not yet safe for winter activities WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.