Facility hazards and aging systems at Shawsheen Valley Regional Vocational Technical cited as reasons for feasibility study

Robert Lawler, the facility director for Shawsheen Valley Regional Vocational Technical, outlined multiple existing plant issues the committee says justify a formal feasibility review and potential capital work. Lawler told the committee there is an out‑of‑use underground storage tank outside the automotive shop and that flooring in many hallways contains asbestos‑containing adhesive beneath layers of tile and linoleum; those materials must be tested before any demolition or intrusive work.

Lawler also said many rooftop heating/cooling units and unit ventilators are at or beyond their expected service life; one pool unit replacement was quoted at roughly $500,000 in recent estimates. He described recurring failures of underground drain lines and an aging energy management system that is 15–16 years old and increasingly difficult to communicate with and maintain.

Members noted access and ADA issues: ramps around the building do not meet current ADA slope standards and some circulation is not accessible, which would factor into cost estimates for upgrades or new construction. Committee members said these specific, documented facility issues strengthen the district's case to MSBA for feasibility‑study funding.

The committee asked that these technical details be included in the materials it will circulate to town officials and finance committees so residents and elected officials understand the scope of maintenance and code‑compliance needs. The group agreed to assemble a concise materials packet for outreach and to provide testing data and existing reports to inform the feasibility study if MSBA advances the project.