WESTFORD CENTER — Updates on the J.V. Fletcher Library expansion, Robinson School building project and upcoming community events were among the highlights from the November Town Manager’s Newsletter.
Interim Town Manager Mike Edwards reflected on his first month in the position, highlighting October’s community celebrations, municipal projects and volunteer efforts.
Town projects and government
Construction continues on the J.V. Fletcher Library renovation and expansion, with an anticipated opening in spring 2027.
The project will expand the library from approximately 22,456 to 35,159 square feet. According to the newsletter, roofing and major infrastructure improvements are largely complete, while interior work continues.
The project has received approximately $8.6 million in state construction grant funding, alongside other financial contributions intended to offset taxpayer costs.
Meanwhile, the Robinson School Building Committee (RSBC) has narrowed 18 preliminary designs to seven districtwide options, ranging from $128 million to $250 million before state reimbursement.
The committee selected the Abbot School site for a proposed 705-student elementary school that would include closing Robinson School. If approved by voters, students are not expected to be affected until 2031.
An in-person RSBC community forum will be held on Nov. 17 in Stony Brook Middle School’s auditorium, and a second virtual community forum is scheduled for Nov. 20 at noon.
The newsletter also recapped the Oct. 26 Special Town Meeting, where 462 registered voters participated. Residents approved several financial appropriations, zoning amendments and energy regulations, while rejecting a proposal to reduce the Community Preservation Act surcharge from 3% to 2%.
The Select Board also reviewed fiscal year 2028 budget matters, health insurance changes and town manager recruitment efforts during October.
Town programs and safety
The Westford Fire Department welcomed two new firefighter/EMTs, Matt Livingston and John Tobon, and conducted training exercises at the Westford Regency ahead of its planned redevelopment.
Police officers participated in leadership and wellness training, while the Veterans Services Department organized its annual Veterans Day ceremony and partnered with Veteran Pathways of New England to provide Thanksgiving meals to veterans.
The Recreation Department continues to offer after-school enrichment, Tai Chi and archery programs.
Also, the Health and Community Wellness departments will host an informational session for the Buried in Treasures decluttering program on Nov. 19 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Town Hall.
Upcoming events and closures
The J.V. Fletcher Library continues offering children’s activities, book clubs and virtual author programs at temporary locations.
The Westford Museum will host a presentation on the town’s historic barns on Nov. 22, followed by its annual Festival of Trees beginning on Nov. 29.
Westford police officers and firefighters will also face Westford Academy hockey players in a friendly competition at Skate 3 on Nov. 29 at noon.
Also, Town Hall will close at noon on Nov. 25 and remain closed Nov. 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving.
Residents can view the full newsletter and additional municipal updates at www.westfordma.gov.
