UPDATE: Chelmsford is gearing up for an important public forum regarding the Parker Middle School building project, set for Thursday, November 20, at 7 p.m. at the Chelmsford-Lowell Elks Lodge, located at 300 Littleton Road. This meeting is critical as the community will discuss plans for a much-needed renovation and modernization of the school.
The School Building Committee will convene an hour earlier, at 6 p.m., to outline key elements of the project. This is the second of three public forums aimed at gathering community input on the school’s future.
The Parker project is currently in the feasibility study phase, with the committee recently partnering with LeftField Project Management and Ai3 Architects to spearhead the design and management efforts. According to David Saindon, project executive with LeftField, Chelmsford’s collaboration with the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) is a significant advantage. “If a district gets invited in, that district has won the lottery,” Saindon stated, emphasizing the competitive nature of the MSBA’s acceptance process for funding.
Being included in the MSBA pipeline means that Chelmsford will receive substantial financial support, with the base reimbursement rate set at 52% of eligible project costs. This funding is crucial as the current building faces numerous challenges, including accessibility issues and non-compliance with updated codes.
Attendees at the first forum on October 22 participated in an interactive mapping exercise, providing valuable feedback on the existing site’s challenges and potential uses. Many expressed their vision for the project, highlighting the importance of community support, accessibility, and sustainable design practices.
Tori Geier, project manager with Ai3 Architects, recently toured the aging school and noted the pressing need for upgrades. “Despite the district’s best maintenance efforts, the building shows its age, particularly regarding accessibility and space limitations,” Geier remarked.
Community members are encouraged to attend this critical forum to voice their opinions and shape the future of Parker Middle School. Stakeholders will discuss not only the structure itself but also the educational opportunities it will provide for future generations.
For those unable to attend, further details on the building project can be found at parkermsproject.com.
In related news, State Rep. Tara Hong is also making headlines with her upcoming Pet Food Drive to support the Lowell Humane Society. Scheduled for Saturday, November 22, from 10 a.m. to noon at 951 Broadway St., the drive aims to collect essential items for the pet food pantry. Hong emphasizes the importance of addressing pet food insecurity, especially during challenging times.
“Every pet deserves a full bowl,” Hong stated, urging community members to contribute. For additional ways to help, visit lowellhumanesociety.org/donate/wish-list.
Stay tuned for updates as both events unfold. Community engagement is vital for these important local initiatives that impact lives directly.
