On September 25, 2025, the Ad Hoc Building Committee (AHBC) presented its latest iteration of the newly proposed DPW. The “base” plan contained many features proposed by the DPW Study Group, had a reduced footprint from prior presentations by Weston and Sampson (W&S), and broke its presentation into four “scenarios.” Yet, with all the whistles and bells the AHBC (and DPW) wants, it remained at essentially the same price point W&S has not shaken for many years – about $32M – and at a size greater than 30,000 sf.
With all features included in “Base Bid” and “Bid Alternatives” (i.e. add-ons) the size is larger that W&S has previously proposed and remains at the same general price point as estimated by W&S and confirmed by the OPM. These figures may change up or down when the bids come in in early 2026.
A followup was issued on October 28 (post updated) detailing bid alternates and the bid solicitation process.
This summary basically re-capped the status at that time:
Base Bid (Scenario 2 in 9/25 presentation -Approved by SB on September 25, 2025)* includes: Administration, Building Maintenance, Fleet Maintenance, Wash Bay, workshop areas,Vehicle storage garage totaling 18,945 sf, 2,500 sf mezzanine Total = 21,445 sf.
Bid Alternate Order:
- Alternate #1: 5,000 sf Fleet storage Total= 26,445 sf – all structures
- Alternate #2 4,050 sf standalone enclosed canopy Total = 30,496 sf – all structures
- All Scenarios include a New Salt Shed, Generator Septic Treatment & Disposal System for the DPW and Town Hall, PWS Drinking Well with a Water Main for the DPW and Town Hall, Fire Protection Pump Room & Cistern Stormwater Drainage All totals include 2,500 sf mezzanine.
The proposed base price is just over $28M. However, it is unlikely the AHBC will settle for the base and we anticipate there will be a concerted effort to include all Bid Alternatives (aka “Scenario 4” in the presentation of 9/25). That is projected to cost $31.8M.
Voter have expressed a strong view that this structure – housing 3 personnel on a daily basis – should come in under $20M. It will be up to voters to decide in ATM 2026.