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Additional Funding Request for Westborough Preschool Project (Benjamin Kwong, Capital Projects Director)
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RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the City Council approve additional funding for the Westborough Preschool Project, due to expanded construction costs and park improvements.
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BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
The project includes a 5-classroom preschool for approximately 100 children, with a secure single entrance, a healthy learning and play environment, flexible classroom spaces, and multiple layers of security. It also includes park improvements, including wheelchair-accessible routes to the tennis courts, two new public restroom stalls near the playground, and picnic areas.
As the project develops, the construction costs are expected to increase due to inflation. Construction of the preschool will begin in Spring 2026 and take roughly 15 months to complete.
The new preschool will allow more children to be enrolled and provide a safer and healthier learning environment. The park improvements will help all visitors and make the park accessible to people with disabilities.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK
Residents have expressed the following concerns,
* ADA complaints about an accessible pedestrian route to the tennis courts.
* Other preschools are too full with long waitlists. This project will allow for more preschool space and improve park facilities.
FISCAL IMPACT
The current budget is $9 million, allocated from Childcare Impact Fees, with an additional $850,000 in federal funding from Congressman Mullin.
The project team estimates the build cost at $12-13 million, with $2 million allocated directly to park improvements. Additional funding is needed to deliver the preschool project with its site additions to the highest quality.
RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN
This project supports the City's goal of improving the quality of life for residents. It will provide more early learning spaces for families and improve accessibility within ...
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