WESTFORD — New contract amendments have been finalized for the Blanchard roof replacement project.
The School Committee voted unanimously to authorize the Superintendent of Schools to execute two contract amendments for the design and construction of the project.
P-Three will provide owners project manager services and Civitects will provide design services for the project.
Blanchard Middle School was originally built in 1992 with renovations in 1998. It has historically had a “troubled roof” according to Director of Facilities Jeff Goodwin.
“Blanchard Middle School has been plagued by roof leaks for the past several years and there have been a number of losses in the building over that time,” Goodwin told WestfordCAT on April 26. “That has contributed to the town having higher insurance deductibles during that time.”
Various inspections were conducted on the roof systems, drainage, edges, and access throughout 2022. Cracks were found in the building’s walls and the slope design of some roofs prevents proper draining.
It is also recommended that the draining systems be replaced and reconnected to existing storm drain ceilings in addition to the roof.
The Blanchard Middle School Roof Replacement Project was first passed during the 2023 Annual Town Meeting and will cost $6.5 million. Up to 48.05% of that funding could be offset by a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority.
“The grant will total about $2.5 million. It’s a huge saving to approve this today,” Goodwin said.
The project will begin in the summer of 2024 and will conclude ahead of the school year.
