UPDATE: Chelmsford is set to hold an urgent public forum on the Parker Middle School building project on Thursday, November 20, 2023, at the Chelmsford-Lowell Elks Lodge, located at 300 Littleton Road, starting at 7 p.m.. The School Building Committee will convene beforehand at 6 p.m. to discuss preliminary details.
This forum follows the first community meeting held on October 22, where residents shared their input on the project. The Parker School initiative is currently in the critical feasibility study phase, with LeftField Project Management and Ai3 Architects now onboard as the project manager and designer, respectively.
David Saindon, project executive at LeftField, highlighted the significance of this partnership with the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), stating, “If a district gets invited in, that district has won the lottery.” He emphasized the competitive nature of the MSBA’s acceptance process, which sees many districts wait years for approval.
Being accepted into the MSBA program means that Chelmsford will receive funding, with a base reimbursement rate of 52% on eligible costs associated with the building process. This financial support is crucial for the successful redevelopment of Parker Middle School.
During the previous forum, participants engaged in an interactive mapping exercise to discuss the existing site’s challenges and opportunities. Attendees placed sticky notes on a large map, sharing thoughts on what success looks like for the project. Key themes included community support, enhanced accessibility, a focus on STEAM education, and a commitment to sustainability.
Tori Geier, project manager with Ai3 Architects, noted the building’s aging condition despite ongoing maintenance efforts. She pointed out significant issues regarding code compliance and undersized learning spaces as per MSBA guidelines, making this renovation project essential for the community.
As the forum approaches, community members are encouraged to attend and voice their opinions on the future of Parker Middle School. The outcome of this project could significantly impact educational opportunities for local students.
For more details on the Parker Middle School building project, visit parkermsproject.com.
In another community initiative, State Rep. Tara Hong is hosting a Pet Food Drive to support the Lowell Humane Society’s pet food pantry on Saturday, November 22, from 10 a.m. to noon at 951 Broadway St. The drive aims to address pet food insecurity, an often-overlooked aspect of food insecurity during the holiday season.
Items needed include canned cat food, dry dog food, and clay cat litter. “I hope to see you on Saturday, November 22nd to ensure every pet has a full bowl,” Hong stated, emphasizing the importance of community support during challenging times.
For those unable to attend the drive, donations can be made through the Lowell Humane Society’s website at lowellhumanesociety.org/donate/wish-list.
Both events underline the vital role community engagement plays in addressing local needs and shaping the future of Chelmsford’s educational and social landscape. Don’t miss your chance to participate in these critical initiatives!
