What site was selected for the new Smith School, and why?

The existing Smith School property was selected as the site for the new Smith School.

The Town of Danvers' Engineering Division utilized GIS to research similarly sized parcels for consideration and determined that there are 12 similarly sized parcels within the Smith School District. Five of the 12 parcels are owned and actively operated by the Town of Danvers. Of the remaining seven parcels, three are owned by St. John's Preparatory School, one is unbuildable, one is owned by the Salem and Beverly Water Supply Board, and two are privately owned. Of the two privately owned parcels, one is an active farm and retail farm stand, and the other is occupied by a three family home situated on a lot with significant area of wetlands and a pond.

The selection of the current site was approved by the design team, local officials, School Department, School Building Committee, and the MSBA. The orientation and placement of the new school design improves site utilization and vehicle circulation on the existing site, and provides more parking than any other school in Town. Parents will no longer have to queue in abutting neighborhoods to pick their students up at the end of the day.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Construction Manager, who is ours, and what do they do?
2. How much does the Smith School Project cost and how much has been spent to date?
3. Why does the Smith Elementary School need to be replaced?
4. Will enrollment at the Smith School increase?
5. Will the Town be completing a redistricting process to help address growing enrollment?
6. What is the Smith School Project at a glance?
7. What site was selected for the new Smith School, and why?
8. What does the project timeline look like?
9. How much will the project cost?
10. How will the Town pay for the new school and how much will it cost the tax payers?
11. Who is the architect for the Smith School project?
12. What is an Owner’s Project Manager, who is ours, and what do they do?
13. What is the MSBA?
14. How can I get involved and stay informed about the Smith School Project?