The following district presented on the progress of their proposed project at the January 31, 2024 Massachusetts School Building Authority (the “MSBA”) Facilities Assessment Subcommittee (the “FAS”) Meeting:
City of Quincy
Squantum Elementary School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study
Owner’s Project Manager: PCA360, LLC
Designer: Arrowstreet, Inc.
The City of Quincy (the “District”), the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented an overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution to proceed into Schematic Design for an addition and renovation project at the Squantum Elementary School serving students in kindergarten through grade 5 on the existing site. The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: appreciation for the District’s educational program; opportunities to include elements of world language instruction as part of day to day curriculum; considerations associated with courtyard maintenance and opportunities for outdoor learning; sheltered access to the building for individuals with limited mobility; providing all students with equal access to musical instruments and technology; variations to MSBA space guidelines; the historic significance of the existing 1919 building; architectural features of the historic 1919 façade and opportunities to further distinguish the main entrance; development of the overall building massing as the design progresses; site circulation and topography; sustainability considerations for achieving net-zero goals; the proposed location of geothermal wells on the adjacent parkland subject to Article 97; incorporation of a resiliency hub for short term community use in the event of severe weather; project cost and associated cost drivers; and, location of the proposed mechanical room below grade.
MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.
