School Committee Delays Contractor Vote to September, Reviews Two Build Methods

WEST BRIDGEWATER -- June 24, 2025, West Bridgewater School Committee hears full breakdown of two contractor delivery methods for new K-6 school. The committee met June 24 for its third schematic design session, receiving a detailed presentation on general contractor versus construction manager at-risk delivery under state procurement law. Project manager Sean explained that the current budget estimate of approximately $176 million assumes the more expensive construction manager at-risk model, and that switching to a general contractor approach could reduce project costs by five to ten percent, potentially $8.8 million to $17.6 million, with any savings flowing directly to the town's debt exclusion. The MSBA's grant cap does not change based on delivery method. Project financial officer John reported that MSBA reimbursements total approximately $358,000 to date, paid June 2, with no ineligible costs flagged. The committee is scheduled to vote on delivery method at its September 9 meeting, the same date schematic design drawings go to cost estimators ahead of an October MSBA submission.