Architects, builder present elementary expansion plan and construction staging ahead of March bond vote

District staff and consultants delivered a detailed update on an elementary-expansion project the board placed before voters in March and that the administration plans to bring back as a construction package to a planned March bond vote.

Dave Toddy and representatives from Novo Studio Architects reviewed the project history—existing-conditions study, space-needs analysis and schematic-to-construction-document phases—and said the team has developed construction documents and a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) for review. Ann (Novo) walked the board through proposed changes at Moharimet and Mast Way: a six-classroom addition at Moharimet, new commons spaces and flexible student resource areas, relocated and right-sized OT/PT and ESOL rooms, two new cool-down rooms and restrooms adjacent to learning centers, and a cafeteria addition at Mast Way to relieve an occupancy and acoustics problem.

The architects emphasized material choices to match existing masonry, natural-light strategies and cost-saving adjustments (for example, consolidating two skylights into one to maintain daylighting while reducing structural cost). Timed sequencing was presented to reduce disruption: the larger addition would be accessed from a new drive off a town parking area so heavy work can be fenced and staged outside the occupied building envelope; most disruptive foundation and exterior work would occur in a summer construction window with interior renovations staged for subsequent summers.

ECMAN Construction described logistics for working in occupied schools: fenced staging, a secure hoarded wall between the existing building and the addition, remote staging areas timed around bus and parent drop-off, and coordination with the principal and district administrators. The contractor said the plan will prioritize student safety and keep noisy or dusty activities outside the occupied envelope when possible.

Board members asked about paving of the proposed access drive (the fire department favors paving), tree removal minimization, and an on-site stormwater plunge pool; architects said they will coordinate planning approvals, minimize tree impacts and evaluate whether fences or further mitigation are needed around the stormwater feature once constructed. A community member who identified himself as a water engineer raised questions about slopes and proximity to a leach field; the consultants said they would monitor and adjust designs as needed. Tim Jagger, a building-committee member and registered architect, said the project addresses both space and life-safety concerns and supports the collaborative review process.

Project next steps identified in the briefing include finalizing construction documents, coordinating permitting with town planning and the fire department, procuring equipment and materials, and preparing public-facing information for the district’s bond discussion and upcoming community outreach.