URGENT UPDATE: Chelmsford residents are invited to a critical public forum for the Parker Middle School building project on Thursday, November 20, at 7 p.m. at the Chelmsford-Lowell Elks Lodge, located at 300 Littleton Road. This is your chance to voice your opinion as the project transitions into the feasibility study phase.
The School Building Committee will meet beforehand at 6 p.m. to discuss ongoing efforts. This forum follows the first session held on October 22, which gathered valuable community feedback.
Why This Matters NOW: The Parker project is a significant investment in the future of Chelmsford’s education system, with the potential for enhanced learning environments. Notably, the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) has partnered with the town, offering 52% reimbursement for eligible costs, a vital opportunity for funding.
David Saindon, project executive with LeftField Project Management, emphasizes the rarity of such partnerships, stating, “If a district gets invited in, that district has won the lottery.” He highlighted the competitive nature of the MSBA’s selection process, with some communities waiting up to eight years for acceptance.
During the previous forum, community members engaged in an interactive mapping exercise to identify challenges and opportunities at the Parker site. Tori Geier, project manager with Ai3 Architects, noted the current school’s age-related issues, particularly in accessibility and compliance with modern educational standards.
Participants expressed their vision for success, highlighting the importance of town support, inclusivity, and sustainability in the new design. “We are committed to creating a space that meets the needs of all students,” Geier stated.
As the project moves forward, community input will be crucial. Attend the forum to make your voice heard!
In related news, State Rep. Tara Hong is hosting a Pet Food Drive on Saturday, November 22, from 10 a.m. to noon at 951 Broadway St., Lowell. This initiative aims to support the Lowell Humane Society’s pet food pantry, addressing food insecurity for pets in the community. Hong encourages everyone to participate: “I hope to see you on Saturday to ensure every pet has a full bowl,” she stated.
For more on the Parker School project, visit parkermsproject.com and stay tuned for further updates as these initiatives progress.
