SMPAC bandshell expansion on track but fire system timeline tight before summer events

Tom Roy, Director of Public Works, told the Board the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center band shell expansion ("The Next Act") is on schedule and on budget, with construction 76% complete as of the end of April and a funded budget of $3,070,881. Roy said the schedule is tight: the project is expected to finish by June 30 to accommodate summer concerts and the Hartford Symphony Orchestra season, but critical items — notably the full fire alarm and suppression work — may not be completed in time and could affect whether the high school graduation is held at the site.

Roy reported seven change orders to date totaling $213,656 and said the project anticipates returning between $130,000 and $155,000 from change order adjustments. The attached project memo (dated May 14, 2026) indicates $157,699 in unallocated funds (about 5% of the funded budget) with a potential remainder of roughly $130,698 after in‑process items are addressed.

Board members asked whether elements had been scaled back; Roy said discretionary items have been reduced where possible and some items such as window treatments could be added later outside the contract. The director noted prior graduations were held at the venue but that active construction distinguishes the current situation.

Next steps: Roy and staff will continue to monitor completion of the fire system and coordinate with the fire marshal on final occupancy and event decisions.