East Greenwich schools finalize design plans with budget adjustments for Hannaford and Frenchtown

The East Greenwich Town Council meeting on April 28, 2025, focused on significant developments in the construction plans for local schools, particularly Frenchtown and Hannaford Elementary Schools. The discussions highlighted the importance of community input in design choices and budget management as the town moves forward with its educational infrastructure projects.

One of the key topics was the architectural design of Frenchtown Elementary School, where the council confirmed that the choice of brick colors was influenced by feedback from local residents. The design will feature a warm palette of reds, which was favored over grays, aiming to create an inviting atmosphere for students and visitors. The school’s design also incorporates wood elements to enhance warmth and aesthetic appeal.

Budget discussions revealed a positive trend in cost management. The council reported that through value engineering and community collaboration, the estimated costs for East Greenwich High School came in $20 million lower than initially projected. This reduction allows for a more balanced investment in both Frenchtown and Hannaford Elementary Schools, ensuring that they meet the necessary educational standards without compromising on quality.

The council is targeting a total budget of $160 million for the construction projects, which includes Meadowbrook School. While there is a projected overage of approximately $6.4 million, this represents only about 4% of the overall budget, indicating a manageable variance as the project progresses. The team is optimistic about further cost efficiencies as they refine designs and move closer to the construction phase.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing educational facilities in East Greenwich while actively engaging the community in the decision-making process. As the project advances, the council aims to maintain transparency and ensure that the schools reflect the needs and preferences of local residents.