In a landmark public hearing that spanned nearly two hours, the Community Planning and Development Commission (CPDC) voted to approve the site plan review and stormwater permit for the proposed redevelopment of Killam Elementary School. The decision marks a significant milestone for the long-anticipated project, which aims to replace the aging facility with a modern, sustainable, and inclusive educational campus.
A Vision for the Future
The new Killam Elementary School, to be located at 333 Charles Street, will be a three-story, 123,000-square-foot building designed to serve 635 students, including the district’s preschool population. The project is a joint effort between the Town of Reading and the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), with the MSBA contributing approximately $44 million and the town funding the remaining $86 million.
The design team, led by Lavallee Brensinger Architects, presented a comprehensive overview of the project, highlighting its phased construction timeline, sustainability goals, and community-focused amenities. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with substantial completion by December 2027 and full occupancy anticipated in February 2028.
Key Features
- Sustainability: The building will meet MSBA’s opt-in energy code standards and feature geothermal systems, durable materials, and a solar-ready roof.
- Accessibility & Safety: ADA improvements, crash-rated fencing, and secure entry systems are integrated throughout the site.
- Outdoor Learning & Play: The campus will include a synthetic turf field, nature-based “WOW Center,” multiple playgrounds, and outdoor dining areas.
- Traffic & Parking: A redesigned loop road and expanded on-site parking (151 spaces) aim to alleviate congestion and improve safety. Off-site improvements to Charles Street are also proposed, including formalized parking and widened sidewalks.
Public Engagement & Concerns
The hearing drew robust participation from town officials, design consultants, and residents. While the overall response was positive, several concerns were raised:
- Parking & Traffic Flow: Residents and commissioners emphasized the importance of ensuring adequate parking and safe traffic circulation, especially during peak hours and transitional phases of construction.
- Interim Conditions: During the brief overlap between demolition of the old school and completion of the new parking lot, staff will park at nearby St. Athanasius Church under a pending agreement.
- Evacuation Planning: Commissioners requested further clarity on emergency evacuation procedures, particularly for students with disabilities.
- Off-Site Improvements: The board stressed the need to align off-site parking and traffic improvements with the building’s timeline to avoid operational gaps.
CPDC Decision
After extensive deliberation, the CPDC unanimously approved the site plan and stormwater permit, granting four waivers related to parking minimums, building height, landscaping standards, and environmental impact statements. The board noted that the proposed design represents a substantial improvement over current conditions and praised the project’s attention to sustainability, accessibility, and community needs.
What’s Next
The project now moves into final design and bidding phases, with continued coordination between town departments, the school building committee, and the design team. Off-site improvements to Charles Street and surrounding areas will be pursued through separate funding and grant opportunities.
As Chair Heather Clish noted:
This is a transformative project for Reading. It’s not just about replacing a school—it’s about building a future-ready campus that reflects our values and serves generations to come.”
