Berkley Community School has been accepted into the eligibility period for the Massachusetts Building Authority School Building Repair Project with a reimbursement rate of 56.63%. The eligibility period includes a schedule of deliverables by the district and the town, including a feasibility study that will assess the needs of the Berkley Community School building. The Town of Berkley has appropriated $500,000 for the completion of the feasibility study, for which they will be reimbursed at the rate of 56.63%. The Berkley Building Committee completed a hiring process for an Owner's Project Manager (OPM) for this project and has hired PMA Consultants. Taylor & Burns have been hired as the architects for this project.

CLICK HERE for the schedule of deliverables.

To schedule a tour of the Berkley Community School to see the repairs needed for yourself, please email jfrancisco@berkleypublicschools.org.

Project History:

The Berkley Community School project began as a rigorous feasibility study evaluating water intrusion and failing building systems, and options to address the many problems identified. Repair, renovation, addition, and new building solutions were considered, with multiple alternatives studied for each approach. Nine solutions were outlined and five were cost estimated. See table above for options evaluated and their estimated total.

With full engagement by Berkley Public Schools, the School Building Committee (SBC), Berkley staff and community members, design professionals, and project manager, each option was carefully evaluated for cost and benefit, especially in terms of effect on Berkley’s Education Plan, disruption of school activities, need for temporary classrooms, traffic & parking, long term operational cost and maintenance, and overall value.

By unanimous vote of the School Building Committee, Option 2.1, a new school building south of the existing school, was determined to be the best solution for Berkley Community School.

For additional information about the process please review to Summary of Options Evaluated.

Detail photos showing existing buidling evenlope problems throughout the Berkley Community School are provided below. Water and leak testing was conducted over multiple days evaluating existing roof systems, walls, and windows.