Melrose renovation prompts community concern over historic building and asbestos abatement

The committee reviewed Melrose School’s phased renovation plan Sept. 17 and responded to community concerns about a historic building, hazardous materials and tree removal.

Architect and construction presenters described a phased approach to keep the campus occupied while demolishing and rebuilding in stages. "We're going to phase it in a way where we can hopefully... demolish Building 1 and then construct a new admin/media center as the new face of the building," said the architect's representative (speaker 15) while outlining phases for portables, demolition and later remodel work.

A community member (speaker 13) noted Building 1’s local history and said, "It will be a shame to lose that historic building," and asked whether renovation alternatives were considered. Presenters responded that a hazardous-abatement study has been done, asbestos-containing materials are known, and abatement recommendations and air-quality testing will be part of the scope to protect students and staff. "When it's all done, there will be air quality test done to make sure everything's clear on the building," a project representative said.

Members also asked for a site plan to be shared with the committee and for more public outreach. Staff said a current site plan exists and will be emailed to the group; the design team said it is preparing a tree-removal proposal and will try to preserve as many trees as possible while accommodating the new design.

Next steps: the design and construction teams will share the site plan with the committee; staff and presenters committed to clear communications about abatement protocols and public engagement regarding heritage elements of the campus.