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Consultants say Medford High has structural, accessibility and systems deficiencies; MSBA process moves forward
Summary
SMMA and engineering consultants reported multiple deficiencies at Medford High — including roof ponding and pool membrane delamination, structural weaknesses, accessibility noncompliance, outdated HVAC and electrical systems — and the Building Committee set a schedule of advisory meetings and a planned PDP submission to the MSBA in late February.
SMMA architects and engineers told the Medford Comprehensive High School Building Committee on Dec. 22 that Medford High School shows widespread building‑envelope deterioration, structural vulnerabilities, accessibility shortfalls and mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems that are past expected service life.
The consultants presented photographs and field observations and said many exterior elements date to the original 1970 construction. The architecture team reported failing windows and translucent pool/gym panels, exterior walls lacking thermal insulation, significant roof ponding and ongoing leaks. The pool roof membrane has delaminated in places and project staff installed mechanical fasteners on the deck as an emergency measure, the team said.
Structural engineer Ellen Swanson said the project team has very limited original structural drawings (only Wing B were available) and must extrapolate conditions for other wings. She flagged that the building lacks a conventional lateral force‑resisting system, that historical drawings did not document seismic or modern wind design, and…
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