Concord Middle School Project Closes In With $7 Million Contingency Remaining

CARLISLE — June 4, 2026 — Concord Middle School project tracks toward closeout with more than $7 million in remaining contingency funds. The Concord Middle School Building Committee met June 4 and heard from its new Owner's Project Manager — Paul, of Hill International, who replaced the departing Vinnie Miller — that combined contingency stands at approximately $7,541,402, with $168,022 remaining in the construction budget for general contractor CTA. Twenty punch list items remain, nearly all outdoor landscaping and seeding work deferred until after the June 17 last day of school. Commissioning lead Paul reported that all building systems are "operating per design" following an intensive push over April vacation week. The building's first-year energy use intensity of roughly 35 kBtu per square foot per year exceeded the 25 EUI design target, but committee members Charlie Parker and Matt Rood said they are comfortable tracking a one-time measurement in house about one year from now, citing MassSave data showing all 10 comparable MSBA school projects exceeded modeled EUI in year one before improving. The committee announced a "hugs and handshakes" closeout celebration for August 20. During public comment, resident Wilson called the outcome "literally $7 million under budget — unbelievable."