PEABODY — After many years of hopeful planning, the construction phase of William A. Welch Elementary School renovation project is about to begin.
Local elected officials, members of the school community, and invited guests stood by proudly as the city broke ground on the $30 million project last week.
“Today is a wonderful day – the weather is perfect, and we’re ready to mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Welch Elementary School,” said Welch School Building Committee Chair Beverley Griffin Dunne. “The Welch School Project is designed to give a new life to the building behind us, but most importantly to allow this building to continue on in providing a safe, nurturing environment to the children of Peabody.”
Dunne said that 60 percent of the cost will be reimbursed by the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). The project includes updated classrooms, a larger library, a new main entrance, a redesigned nurse’s office, enhanced security and new windows, air conditioning and ventilation, and HVAC systems. Construction is scheduled to start this summer with completion expected by the fall of 2024.
The project’s architect is Boston-based DiNisco Design Inc.; the project manager is Dore + Whittier of Newburyport, and the construction manager is Milton-based Consigli Construction.
“Thank you all for working so hard on this project, for working for so many years to make this possible,” Dunne said.
Mayor Edward A. Bettencourt, Jr. echoed Dunne’s words, saying the project has been something the city has worked on for a “very long time. This is something that brings a lot of happiness to all of us. To have this moment makes me think about all the people who gave so much and made magic happen here even during some difficult and challenging moments.”
Among those in attendance were state Sen. Joan B. Lovely, state Reps. Tom Walsh and Sally Kerans, School Superintendent Dr. Josh Vadala, Welch Principal Michelle Massa, City Council President Ryan Melville, Ward 2 Councilor Peter McGinn, School Committee member Jon Swanson and MSBA Executive Director Jack McCarthy. McCarthy said the MSBA is “proud to be a part of Peabody’s tomorrow.”
Several Welch students shared their thoughts on what the project means to them.
“I’m excited that in fifth grade we will be in a brand-new room (and) we will be graduating from a new school,” said second grade student Priscyla. “Hopefully, the new building doesn’t make anyone confused. I think it’s going to be a fantastic new building.”
Second grade student Mason said he is excited to be getting a new cafeteria and new windows.
“Maybe we will get new food too,” he said. “We are getting new windows so that we can see better. I can’t wait to see the seasons change in my new classroom. Our class would like to thank everyone for making a great new school.”
Emily Sanon, a fourth grader, said she is excited about having air conditioning and safer playground conditions.
“It could stop students from sweating and complaining about the heat (and) we will have a better and safer playground that will better fit everyone to play,” she said.
Bettencourt said Dunne has been a “strong advocate” for not only the Welch school, but all city schools.
Dunne, whose four children attended Welch, said the school opened its doors in 1973 and that “once you’re a member of the Welch school family, you’re part of a pretty special group.” She said that the school has a rich tradition with many graduates going on to enjoy successful careers in the trades, business, and education.
“Welch school students have gone on to do great things and to give back to our community and especially to education. That’s a great tribute to the work that goes on the building behind us, and we’re very happy to be able to give this building and the Welch school family many more happy years ahead. This school touches the future, and will continue to do so for many more generations.”
Bettencourt thanked Massa and the Welch school staff and students.
“You’ve all made the difference and we are grateful to have you,” he said. “It’s going to be challenging these next couple of years as we work through this project. It’s going to be an uphill project at times and I know it’s going to put a lot on all of you, but it’s going to be an outstanding result when we are finished. I can’t wait for the day when we are all back here for the ribbon cutting.”
Anne Marie Tobin can be reached at [email protected].