'Proud And Long-Awaited Day': Peabody Hires New High School Project Manager

PEABODY, MA — Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt called the hiring of a project manager for the new high school construction "a major step" on Wednesday in what he said was a "proud and long-awaited day for the city of Peabody."

Bettencourt said PMA Consultants will manage the project to build a new Peabody Veterans Memorial.

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"For many years, our community has recognized the need for a new high school, and today we are finally taking the first major step toward making it a reality," Bettencourt said. "This marks an exciting moment for our students, families, and residents.

"A new high school will strengthen educational opportunities for generations of students, support our city's long-term economic development, and stand as a major investment in Peabody's future."

He said PMA Consultants was selected "following a competitive evaluation process." The project manager will represent the city throughout the design and feasibility phase of the program, working with the architectural team.

Peabody last year was approved for state matching funds through the Massachusetts School Building Authority process.

Salem was approved for a new school three years ago and this spring will vote on a tax override to fund about $239 million of its $447 million project — with state matching funds picking up the rest through the MSBA.

"I am very happy with our choice of PMA as our Project Manager," said School Building Committee Chair Beverley Griffin Dunne. "Their materials and presentation, as well as their responsiveness throughout the selection process and interviews, gave me great confidence that their attention to detail and personal appreciation for our project will allow Peabody and PMA to be great partners."

Superintendent Josh Vadala said the project "presents incredible opportunities for our students and staff."

"The learning environment we create today will define what teaching and learning look like in Peabody for decades to come," Vadala said. "We are excited to begin this process with a team that understands the educational vision and the promise this project holds for our community."

Bettencourt said the project will be guided by transparency, collaboration, and ongoing public input, "ensuring that the new high school becomes not only a first-class educational facility but a true community resource for events, athletics, arts, and civic life."