Norwood middle school committee approves invoices and equipment buys, indefinitely postpones roof‑screen design

The Town of Norwood Middle School Building Committee on May 12 approved April vendor invoices and several equipment and technology purchases, authorized a construction change order, and voted unanimously to indefinitely postpone further design of rooftop mechanical-unit screening.

The approvals release more than $3 million in April payments and clear planned purchases for furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) and classroom technology as the new middle school approaches Phase 1 substantial completion. Committee members also reviewed construction progress, options for reconnecting an outdoor walking path, and a recommended repair approach after moisture damage to the new gymnasium floor.

The invoice package for April totaled $3,032,256.62, the committee heard. The packet included Owner’s Project Manager (OPM) and QA/QC testing invoices for Vertex ($92,410.20), AI3 architectural services ($73,215.86), FF&E and technology vendor charges, radios for facilities ($22,165), restoration of a historic clock ($3,485), and payment application No. 23 for WT Rich (inclusive of change orders) for $2,671,227.47. After discussion, the committee approved the invoice package by roll call; all members present voted yes.

The committee approved off‑budget FF&E wish‑list items including a grand piano, kiln shelving, standing desks and wrestling mats. The original request total shown to the committee was $45,511; members amended…