News

High school architects to meet with neighbors

By Cate Lecuyer
Staff writer
Published: April 8, 2008

BEVERLY — High school architects will meet with neighbors next week, giving the public its first opportunity since last June to weigh in on plans for the new building.

On Monday, April 14, at 7 p.m. in the Beverly High School library, architects from Mount Vernon Group will explain the design plans, talk about the construction schedule, and hear questions and concerns.

Superintendent James Hayes has said he hopes to place the project out to bid at the end of April and break ground in June.

"As neighbors of the high school, you are important to us, and we want you to be aware of what this will mean for your neighborhood," Hayes wrote in a letter that was mailed to about 120 abutters at the end of last week. The meeting is open to the entire community.

The plans call for renovations to the field house, cafeteria and auditorium in the current building; the addition of a four-story academic wing; a new, 1,000-seat stadium with lights; and maybe two artificial turf fields, depending on the cost and how state funding pans out. Students would remain at the high school during construction.

The Massachusetts School Building Authority recently approved the design, which Mayor Bill Scanlon has said is a guarantee that there will be state reimbursement for a portion of the $68 million cost. Exactly how much is still being decided, but Scanlon has said he expects to get at least 50 percent, or $34 million.

If you go

What: Public meeting about high school construction

When: Monday, April 14, 7 p.m.

Where: Beverly High School library