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Medford committee narrows high school design choices to six, outlines A–D options
Summary
The Medford Comprehensive High School Building Committee reduced 29 design alternatives to six and described four broad approaches — A (code repairs), B (retain structure and reimagine interiors), C (targeted gym/pool renovations), and D (new construction) — guided by Massachusetts School Building Authority rules.
Jenny Graham, chair of the Medford Comprehensive High School Building Committee, said the group has trimmed an initial slate of 29 conceptual designs for Medford Comprehensive High School to six shortlisted options to make evaluation and public feedback more manageable. "If you've been following along, you know that we started out with 29 options and the feedback overall was that that was a huge number," Graham said.
Matt Rice, the project's principal architect, described the process as "very healthy," saying the narrowed set lets the team test distinct scenarios on the site, including additions, renovations and full replacement. "It really gives us the ability to look at very different scenarios around the site," Rice said.
The committee framed the six finalists using an A–D nomenclature. Rice said Option A is a MSBA-directed "code repair" baseline that identifies the minimum work needed to bring the existing building into compliance, including replacement of the exterior envelope and upgrades to mechanical and electrical systems to meet energy and safety codes. Option B would retain the existing structural frame but reconceive interior spaces to meet an updated educational plan while also addressing code issues.
Option C focuses on targeted renovations — primarily the gymnasium, pool and adjacent physical-education spaces — which the team flagged as program elements that carry special treatment under Massachusetts School Building Authority reimbursement rules. Rice said the gym and certain fitness spaces are larger than what could typically be rebuilt under a new construction reimbursement model, and that the pool is a distinct funding consideration under MSBA guidelines.
Option D represents full new construction: all systems and spaces would be newly built, though new construction could overlap some existing footprints rather than necessarily sit in a completely different location.
Graham noted the committee includes roughly 25 volunteers and members who have been reviewing trade-offs and priorities. The architects and committee emphasized there is not yet a single preferred design; next steps include continued community engagement, refining cost and program studies, and aligning options with MSBA requirements before the committee narrows toward a recommended path.
The meeting did not include a formal vote on a preferred option; the discussion was framed as a progress update and an invitation for further public input.
