MSAD51 School Board votes on the final concept design for a new primary building. Work will begin to develop the warrant question.
At the June 22 School Board meeting, Oak Point Associates delivered an overview of the updated proposal for a new school building. The Board voted 7-1 to approve the plans. The bond question to be presented to residents will include a new PK - 2nd grade facility in North Yarmouth and renovations to Mabel I. Wilson school to make it a 3rd - 5th grade building.
Estimated cost totals $74M. If approved by voters as a November referendum, construction could begin in 2024. The School Board intends to hold public forums in September.
Work to develop the plan began in the fall of 2019 and has encountered numerous setbacks, including site changes and pushback from municipal leaders. The current location would put a District asset back in North Yarmouth for the first time since closing North Yarmouth Memorial School in 2014.
Much needs to be coordinated between North Yarmouth and Cumberland, as well as with Maine DOT and utility providers. Turning lanes must be added on Route 115 and at the junction of Routes 9 and 115. Three-phase power, public water, and gas lines will need to be run to the school site. Details and timing of this work are not finalized. Extending sidewalks to the new site was mentioned.
The new primary building will have a capacity of 736 students. Once improvements are completed at Mabel I. Wilson, the building will accommodate 682 students.
A target opening date for the new primary building is set for September 2026.