The Newton City Public Facilities Committee meeting on April 30, 2025, highlighted significant developments in the ongoing Franklin School project, which is set to begin construction this fall. The project is currently at 90% completion of its construction documents and is scheduled for a final review by the design review committee next month. Bidding for the project will take place over the summer, with work expected to commence in September.

One of the key aspects of this project is that it will be conducted while the Franklin School remains occupied, minimizing disruption for students. Unlike the previous Countryside project, the staff parking lot at Franklin will remain operational throughout the first phase of construction, which is anticipated to last approximately 18 months. By the end of this phase, students will transition into the new facility, allowing for the demolition of the old building and the creation of new fields, with completion targeted for the start of the 2027 school year.

The meeting also addressed staffing challenges within the public buildings department, particularly following the retirement of a key project manager. The current construction market remains competitive, making it difficult to attract experienced professionals. However, the team is adapting by assigning project managers based on geographical proximity to ensure effective oversight.

In addition to the Franklin School project, the committee discussed other smaller capital projects, though these were not the primary focus of the meeting. The committee emphasized the importance of these larger projects in enhancing community facilities and meeting the needs of residents.

As the city moves forward with these developments, the committee remains committed to ensuring that construction efforts align with community goals and minimize impact on daily school operations. The next steps will involve finalizing project bids and continuing to monitor the progress of ongoing projects.