The decision between the two design options is a critical one:  The result will have a major impact on how the project proceeds.  There are multiple factors to consider in this evaluation.  In fact, the SBC has developed a criteria sheet to facilitate the assessment.

The choice is complex and will require the balance of multiple, competing priorities.  Committee 21 has strongly urged the following priorities (6/12/07 issue) in the evaluation of the project:

·    To provide a building which meets the programming needs of today and into the future;

·   To provide a construction process which does not adversely affect the education and extracurricular opportunities of current students;

·   To provide a building which is cost effective in construction and in operation.

Based on review of the two options and on active participation throughout the past six months of meetings and discussions, Committee 21 advocates for the Hub option as the optimal solution to effectively provide for these priorities, based on the following summarized points:

·    Program delivery - both options effectively provide for this priority.

·    Shorter duration - The shorter duration of the Hub is decisive.  The difference between a 3-year construction period and a 4.8-year period is highly significant.  Construction that does not occur in multiple phases and does not occur in an occupied building will be significantly less disruptive and safer.

·    Phasing - The single phase construction of the Hub is also decisive.  Multiple phases require frequent movement of equipment, program spaces and furnishings within the school.  Each move requires teacher and staff time at the expense of standard duties.  Increased enrollment already stretches the capacity of the staff to provide the program; multiple years of construction moves will prove even more detrimental to this delivery.

·    Cost Management - a single phase, 3-year all new construction project minimizes cost escalation and the potential for unanticipated costs.  These factors have proven to jeopardize the success of neighboring High School projects (e.g. Newton North) and has resulted in negative pressure on not only the building project, but the support of town operating budgets.

There are many additional considerations and many questions and concerns remain.  However, at this decision point, we urge the SBC and PBC to determine the Hub as the optimal design option to pursue for the residents of