Portsmouth committee reviews completed bond projects, upcoming summer work and urgent high-school roof repairs

Portsmouth School Committee members heard updates on facilities work, including completion of classroom HVAC, bathroom and elevator projects at Hathaway and additional HVAC and bathroom work at Melville, and were told that the Portsmouth High School roof has become a top district priority.

District leaders said the summer 2024 bond projects reached certificates of substantial completion and are occupied, though a few minor punch-list items remain. The district's construction work for summer 2025 will focus on two new sets of student bathrooms at Portsmouth Middle School; committee members were told Marin Construction was awarded that contract after a bid process and the district building committee review.

Facilities Director Mr. Simmons gave a high-level overview of a comprehensive facilities review he compiled after meeting building administrators and walking district properties. He said the review is intended to establish a prioritized list of maintenance and capital needs the district can address during vacation periods and upcoming summers. Committee members discussed ongoing coordination between the district and town for roofing work and other major maintenance projects.

Dr. Kenworthy and others said the high school roof has become a main priority, and that Simmons will give a fuller update later on the agenda and continue work with town officials to expedite repair plans. Committee members also discussed the district's recent public tour of Hathaway school projects held after the District Building Committee meeting on Jan. 15.

Ending: The committee received the facilities review and noted Marin Construction is scheduled for the PMS bathroom project in summer 2025; the district will continue to pursue roof repairs at Portsmouth High School and to coordinate with town officials on next steps.