Study Finds Gibbs Building Renovations Less Expensive than Ottoson Addition

ARLINGTON, MA—According to a feasibility study done by HMFH architects, utilizing the Gibbs building as a new middle school would be less expensive than adding on to the Ottoson Middle School.

In light of the rapidly growing middle school population in Arlington, the town designated either the renovation of the Gibbs Building, or an addition to the already overcrowded Ottoson Middle School as a solution to the problem. During its April 14 meeting, the Arlington School Committee unanimously endorsed the use of the Gibbs Building as opposed an addition to the Ottoson.

"On such a postage stamp-sized lot to try to cram in the largest middle school in the state, and that's what it would be, is just not feasible at all," School Committee member Paul Schlictman stated at the April 14 meeting.

As it turns out, the use of the Gibbs building would be less expensive than adding on to the Ottoson Middle School. According to a report by HMFH Architects, the renovation of the Gibbs building would cost an estimated $19.9 million.

An addition to the Ottoson would cost approximately $22.8 million, according to the feasibility study. Total construction costs are estimated at $19.0 million, not including a 20 percent factor for soft costs.

Construction at the Gibbs building would cost $16.6 million, before the 20 percent factor.

Superintendent Kathleen Bodie also recommended the use of the Gibbs Building.

"The choice for an addition to the existing middle school creates an even more labyrinthine building that may affect students' feeling of connection to and comfort in their school environment," wrote Bodie in her recommendation of the Gibbs building."Difficulty with navigating an even larger building will likely cause some students increased stress."

Both reports from HMFH Architects can be found here.