11:16The meeting commenced with discussions around the construction project’s site work and demolition, particularly concerning the preparations needed before receiving full approval under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA). This approval is crucial, as it affects the timeline for construction and potential delays could impact the project’s overall schedule. The council highlighted the importance of relocating utilities and completing foundational work within a designated buffer zone, with some work permitted before final MEPA approval, expected by the end of summer. This buffer zone also involves the high school overlay, where limitations remain until full approval is granted.

22:12Inquiries about the timeline for completing site work were addressed. The council expressed confidence that ongoing communication with the governor’s office would prevent potential setbacks in the MEPA review process, maintaining commitments to review dates. Environmental risks that could extend the permitting process were also discussed, with assurances given that no significant challenges were anticipated from the MEPA submissions already made.

18:51Further, the council delved into the specifics of demolition work, which includes the removal of large amounts of concrete and contaminated soil. A concern raised during the meeting was the safety of the existing fence along the MBTA tracks, which poses a risk to public safety, especially for nearby children. The council acknowledged the need for further examination of the fence’s condition and committed to securing the area once necessary permissions are obtained.

33:59A notable development during the meeting was the approval of a contract amendment related to site demolition, with WL French confirmed as the low bidder. This decision followed a roll call vote, with unanimous approval. The council also secured a temporary access permit with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and finalized permits for design elements, with the bidding process for various trades set to begin.

04:40The financial aspects of the construction project were another focal point of the meeting. The council discussed the stability of the budget, noting that it remained under budget due to unspent funds from a feasibility study. Invoices for several companies, including Left Field LLC, Perkins Eastman, and Conigley Construction Company, were approved. The council also addressed concerns about modifications in timelines for construction relative to cash flow, especially in light of upcoming borrowing. It was agreed that current cash flow projections were accurate, but further reviews would be conducted to ensure no changes impacted cash flow.

36:24Additionally, the council introduced plans to issue $75 million in temporary bonds to address ongoing financial deficits, emphasizing the necessity for careful cash flow management. This initiative will be a standing agenda item in future meetings, with a focus on monitoring bonding and borrowing. A suggestion was made to incorporate budget percentages alongside cost codes in future presentations to provide clearer insights into budget expenditures.

In preparation for upcoming construction phases, the council reported that permitting was progressing smoothly, with a site walk scheduled with the River Conservation Commission and a temporary access permit secured. The bidding process for various trades, including a critical focus on steel bidding, is set to begin, with the possibility of additional meetings in July and August to accommodate the process.

The demolition scope also included the removal of existing foundations from racetrack grandstands and the establishment of erosion control measures. Conigley Construction Company presented a visual logistics plan for the site, detailing fencing and boundary establishment, including a 200-foot buffer zone for the eastern county ditch as part of the MEPA waiver.