Pelham bond projects advance pending SCD permits; work to be phased over two summers

District officials updated the board that the Colonial and Prospect bond projects are progressing with design and permitting and are planned to be executed in phased contracts. Administrators said they expect final permit approvals and Shippo sign-off in the coming weeks and, once received, will proceed to bidding and contracting so work can begin this summer.

"We are currently awaiting final SCD permit approvals, including, Shippo sign off, which we expect within the next few weeks," the chair said. Officials described a two-summer phasing plan: the first summer will focus on infrastructure work such as piping, façade repairs and roofing; the second summer will focus on installing major equipment, including HVAC systems once procurement is complete. The district also said it may include stormwater mitigation beyond planned municipal measures at Colonial if budget allows.

At Sowenoy (Sowenoy/Siwonoy spelling variants were discussed), staff reported schematic design is complete and that a site plan advisory committee has examined underground stormwater controls and landscaping. The group supported installing a single basketball hoop (instead of two) and a 10-foot fence to address noise and after-hours playground use. Administrators emphasized allowances in contracts to manage unknown site conditions while preserving district oversight of changes.