Peabody Awarded $17M Grant for Welch Elementary School

BOSTON—State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg, Chair of the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), and MSBA Executive Director/Deputy CEO John K. McCarthy announced today that the MSBA Board of Directors voted to approve a grant of up to $17,184,400 million for an addition renovation project at the existing William A. Welch Elementary School, located in the City of Peabody. One of the next steps is for the District and the MSBA to enter into a Project Funding Agreement, which will detail the project’s scope and budget, along with the conditions under which the District will receive its MSBA grant.

“Upon completion, this project will provide a 21st century learning environment for students in Peabody,” Treasurer Goldberg said. “Our goal is to create the best space to deliver the District’s educational commitments and goals.”

The proposed project would consist of an addition and renovation to the existing William A. Welch Elementary School. The District had identified in their Statement of Interest mechanical, electrical and plumbing system deficiencies. Additionally, the District identified that a number of building envelope issues as well as accessibility issues.

“Peabody students will soon have a beautiful, renovated space which will undoubtedly enhance and improve their ability to excel in the classroom.” stated Executive Director/Deputy CEO McCarthy.

The MSBA partners with Massachusetts communities to support the design and construction of educationally appropriate, flexible, sustainable and cost-effective public school facilities. Since its 2004 inception, the Authority has made over 1,750 site visits to more than 250 school districts as part of its due diligence process and has made over $15.4 billion in reimbursements for school construction projects.