Project staff and contractors told the committees that bulk excavation is underway, concrete subcontractors have mobilized and Welsh Associates completed baseline layout work for the middle/high school site. The project’s permitting track is advancing: the planning board formally approved final plans, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management signed off, the fire department provided sign-off, and the physical-alteration permit was approved pending an insurance certificate from the contractor; the building permit is in the portal and the building official is prepared to sign after the state ADA fee is paid (the building permit fee itself is waived).
On schedule items and alternates, staff outlined decision windows: roof alternates (1a–1e) have an end-of-year decision window if the work stays in Phase 2; alternate 2 (phase 3 items) would be considered in March 2026 if needed; the first-floor bathroom core alternate will need a decision in September 2025 and the new elevator alternate by October 2025 if they are to be included in earlier phases. The design and procurement team said they expect to issue a conformed set incorporating addenda and then ask awarded subcontractors to confirm prices so a GMP can be issued (target: late August / early September, with a short validation window after conformance issuance).
The team also reported favorable cost trending: staff presented a cost trending log that showed the project “trending very well,” with approximately $7.7 million under the 60% CD budget at the time of the meeting (staff caveated that remaining packages and alternates could shift totals). The construction manager said there remain approximately eight bid packages (about $10 million of trade costs) to award.
Separately, Colliers said they are pursuing four electric‑vehicle chargers at the middle/high school using the NEVI grant opportunity, which reopened this month; if approved the grant would cover 80% of costs and the application window closes August 15.
Committee members discussed timing for public walk-throughs, monthly drone and progress photos (planned), and community coordination for sports and parking during construction. The team emphasized safety and scheduling controls for tours and will formalize a process for escorted site visits.