The committee examined the feasibility of an accelerated construction schedule, which would bring the completion date forward by several months, potentially allowing students to occupy the new facility by the summer of 2028 instead of 2029. This timeline adjustment is anticipated to save the district $2.3 million, primarily by reducing escalation costs. However, the members also weighed the financial implications of borrowing sooner, which could offset some of these savings. The need for significant coordination among team members was emphasized to ensure the feasibility of this expedited schedule.

In evaluating the construction management services for this project, several firms were considered, with Gilbane ultimately being selected. The decision came after a competitive bidding process, where the firms were assessed based on their technical proposals and interview performance. Gilbane’s selection was influenced by their high technical score and positive feedback on their community engagement strategies. One participant noted that Gilbane had been particularly effective in communicating plans to mitigate disruptions for neighbors.

The meeting also addressed the project’s budget and funding sources. There was a thorough discussion on aligning the proposed project costs with the budget approved by the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). The pre-construction services were a key focus, with the committee ensuring that the fees proposed by the firms were in line with the $225,000 budget previously approved at the town meeting. The committee was cautious in balancing cost efficiency with the need to maintain a high standard of construction management services.

The construction project is set to include several innovative features, such as the installation of a geothermal system designed to enhance the building’s energy efficiency. The committee discussed the technical aspects of this system, including the placement of geothermal wells and the importance of tailoring the design to the building’s specific needs. Previous projects were cited as examples of successful geothermal installations, with iterative assessments ensuring optimal placement and efficiency.

Safety and community engagement were major themes throughout the meeting. The project team underscored their commitment to maintaining a safe environment for students and staff, particularly given the construction’s proximity to the existing school. Measures such as robust fencing, limited access points, and a knockbox system for emergency services were highlighted as part of the comprehensive safety protocols. The construction management team also emphasized the importance of community engagement, proposing regular meetings and communications with local residents to address any concerns and keep the public informed.

The committee also discussed the project’s logistics and environmental considerations, such as construction near wetland buffers and the management of construction activities during school operation. Strategies were outlined for protecting the environment and minimizing disruptions, with plans to maintain access to community facilities like playgrounds and ballfields throughout the construction process.