East Bridgewater School Committee Advances Central School Building Project with Schematic Design Approval
EAST BRIDGEWATER - August 18 - The East Bridgewater School Committee has made significant progress on the Central School building project, approving the schematic design that will be submitted to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) for funding. The design, which aims to address critical infrastructure needs and enhance educational programming, is set for a town meeting vote in the near future.
Detailed Overview
During the August 18 meeting, Superintendent Dr. Gina Williams provided an update on the Central School building project, emphasizing the need for a new facility to replace the existing structure, which has significant accessibility and safety issues. The committee discussed the importance of the schematic design, which will be submitted to the Massachusetts School Building Authority by the August 28 deadline.
Dr. Williams explained that the current building is not compliant with ADA standards, making it inaccessible for some students. The proposed new building is estimated to cost approximately $125 million, with the MSBA expected to cover a significant portion of that expense leaving the Town with a share of $76 million. The committee highlighted that a basic repair of the current facility would still cost around $60 million, emphasizing the financial and educational advantages of pursuing a new build instead.
The discussion also touched on the timeline for the project, with hopes to open the new school by September 2028, following a series of approvals from both the MSBA and the town. The committee is actively engaging with the community to ensure transparency and gather feedback on the project, with several forums held to discuss progress and address concerns from residents.
In addition to the building project, the committee reported on staffing updates and preparations for the upcoming school year, including new hires and orientation activities for staff. The meeting concluded with a vote to approve the schematic design, which is a critical step in moving forward with the building project.
Key Motions, Votes, & Official Actions
Motion: Approval of the schematic design for the Central School building project. Outcome: Approved. Watch this moment
Major Topics of Discussion
Topic: Central School building project update. Discussion Summary: Dr. Williams presented the need for a new school building, discussed the schematic design approval, and outlined the timeline for submitting to the MSBA. Watch this moment
Action Items & Next Steps
The next steps include submitting the schematic design to the MSBA by August 28 and preparing for the upcoming town meeting to secure further approvals for the project. The committee will continue to engage with the community to provide updates and gather feedback.
*editor’s note: I’m experimenting with meeting formats and embedded links
Source Video: Watch the full meeting