The Massachusetts State Building Authority (MSBA) Board today voted to approve the proposed Wayland High School Modernization and Expansion Project and to contribute up to $25 million for the project.
The Wayland High School Building Committee (HSBC) submitted the project for MSBA approval after completing a Feasibility Study and Schematic Design project this summer. Along with HMFH Architects and KV Associates, and working closely with MSBA, the team updated its study of existing conditions, conducted an Educational Planning and Visioning Effort, studied design options and selected an approach, developed schematic designs, and prepared a cost budget and schedule for the remainder of the construction project.
The HSBC has proposed the construction of two new buildings over the existing parking lot and renovation of the Field House. The project budget totals $70.8 million (including the phase just completed), of which the state will reimburse up to $25 million on a “pay-as-you-build” progress payment system. This represents 40% of eligible expenses, with Wayland’s share of the project budgeted at $45.8 million.
According to MSBA rules, Wayland must approve the project within 120 days to proceed. A vote is scheduled for November 17, 2009 at the polls and at a Special Town Meeting on November 18, 2009. If approved, the next step is for Wayland and MSBA to enter into a Project Funding Agreement which will detail the project’s scope and budget, and set forth the terms and conditions under which Wayland will receive its grant from MSBA.
The HSBC will offer two community forums. The first will be Thursday evening, October 15th at 7:30pm in the large hearing room at the Town Building. The second will be Tuesday morning, October 20th at 9:30am in the School Committee conference room at the Town Building. All members of the community are welcome and are encouraged to attend.
Details of the project will be made available at the forums, including the proposed design, project schedule and a tax impact analysis now being prepared by the Finance Committee. This will be followed by a question and answer session where members of the design team, the Wayland School Committee, the School District Administration and others will be available to answer questions. Attendees will also be able to voice their concerns and offer input for upcoming project phases. The forums will be taped for broadcast on the Wayland Cable channel. Viewers should check WayCam for the broadcast schedule.
Documents from the project are posted to the website when available. For more information about the forums or the project, visit http://www.waylandschoolcommittee.org/ or contact Lea Anderson at (508) 358-2667.
