Boston Public School Master Plan Calls Construction Industry to Action

Monday, April 10, 2017

In March, Boston mayor Marty Walsh announced that the city is introducing a “new era of school investment,” a $1 billion, 10-year master plan called BuildBPS. Developed with planning firm Symmes Maini & McKee Associates, BuildBPS represents a major business opportunity for the local construction industry to play a part in shaping the future of Boston’s public schools.

Modernizing the Classrooms

A 2016 survey found that 60 percent of students, parents, and staff rated the condition of Boston’s public schools as “fair” or “poor.” More than 50 percent of Boston’s 127 public schools were built before World War II, and less than half of the buildings have been fully renovated. Through BuildBPS, the city plans to build modern classrooms with energy efficient environments, allowing for more fresh air and natural sunlight, and technology to promote 21st century learning and teaching methodologies.

Project Funding

Primary capital spending for BuildBPS will be funded by bonds issued by the City, with secondary funding through matching funds from the Massachusetts School Building Authority. Funding for the highest-priority projects is expected to be included in the proposal for Boston’s 2018 capital budget.

The Preti Flaherty Construction Law group is keeping abreast of this topic and will provide updates as it develops. Contact us with any questions or comments.