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.
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