Freetown elementary officials and GPI engineers described a proposal to remove deteriorating brick walkways and failing low retaining walls at the school’s main entrance and replace them with new concrete surfaces, leveled areas and updated wheelchair ramps to meet ADA standards.

Why it matters: The existing brick walkway and adjacent walls are showing settlement and displacement that the presenter said are creating trip hazards and ongoing maintenance costs. The plan would mitigate safety risks, address non-compliant ramps, and produce a larger, leveled area outside the school entrance for future use.

What was presented: Jim Noyce of the engineering group (GPI) said the project would remove tens of square feet of brick and replace worn concrete walkways. The design includes leveling two raised mounds near the entrance, removing several trees whose roots are pushing on walls, and reconstructing about 12,700 square feet of concrete area. The plan also calls for making four wheelchair ramps ADA-compliant.

Cost and timeline: The presenter offered a conservative, preliminary cost estimate near $155,000 and noted the estimate could be refined once final plans and bids are ready. The engineer said the town of Freetown has agreed to remove the trees and do initial site prep; the district and town plan to advertise for bids at the end of April, receive bids in May, and start construction after school ends in June with work expected to run through July and early August to avoid interfering with instruction.

Funding and roles: The presenter said the town of Freetown is leading the capital project and would provide funding; the district will coordinate with facilities staff. The design work remains in draft-stamped plans pending finalization and bid-ready documents.

Accessibility and materials: GPI showed three surface finish options, ranging from a plain finish to broom/faced patterns; the presenter recommended the middle (broom finish) but said the committee should decide. He reiterated the importance of making all ramps ADA compliant at the time of construction.

Questions and clarifications: Committee members asked whether adjacent concrete sections would be matched color/finish; the presenter said much of that paving is in good shape and the plan is to leave sound sections in place to limit cost. Committee members also requested final, stamped plans and a refined bid estimate before award.

Ending: The project moves next to finalizing plans and soliciting bids; the town’s removal of trees and initial site work was already committed, and the district expects a contractor to begin work after school recess in late June or July.