Stoughton’s progress toward a new elementary school reached a technical milestone Wednesday evening as the Elementary School Building Committee cleared project managers to submit critical design documents to the state. The committee held a special virtual session to authorize Vertex, the town’s project management firm, to move forward with the Design Development submission to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) by a Monday deadline.

Eric, a representative from Vertex, explained that this filing represents the first of three increasingly detailed design phases required by the state. Following the feasibility studies and the successful town ballot vote in 2023, the project is now entering the granular engineering and architectural stage. This is where DRA and their sub-consultants really start to develop the drawings, Eric told the committee. They will continue to do so in the next submissions: the 60% construction documents and then the 90% construction documents.

The submission includes a life cycle cost analysis and updated documents regarding the Town of Stoughton. The committee’s action follows recent town-wide efforts to manage the financial impact of the massive construction project. The Select Board previously opted for a 20-year repayment plan for the school’s debt exclusion—rather than a 30-year model—to save the town an estimated $24.5 million in interest costs. This fiscal discipline aligns with current town discussions regarding a significant FY27 budget gap and the need for efficiency in major capital projects.

During the brief discussion, member Mark Tisdale raised questions about necessary legal paperwork, noting, We might need a certified vote on an article. What was it? 12 and 13 or 13 and 14? This reference to land swap articles underscores the complexity of the project, which involves ongoing coordination between the School Committee, the Select Board, and the Finance Committee. Chair Chris Shannon clarified the evening's goal, stating the priority was a Motion Made by J. Distefano to authorize Vertex to submit the Design Development package on Monday, November 3rd.

After Jillian Distefano stated, So moved, the committee conducted a roll call. Other members present, including Steve Cavey and Town Manager Thomas Calter, supported the advancement. Motion Passed 6-0-0. The finalized design development package is expected to be tied off with a bow for the November 3rd deadline, leading toward the eventually public bidding process through the town’s procurement department.