Residents press city presenters about excavation at school site and possible chemical finds

A city project presenter told residents the excavation and related mechanical work at a school site will continue through fall and winter, with major activities stretching from 2027 into autumn 2028 and communications about next steps expected around July 29.

During the public‑comment period, multiple residents raised safety and access concerns. One resident asked whether the area near the high school would remain passable for pedestrians during construction and whether vehicles would still be able to use the route; the presenter replied that vehicles would be able to pass but pedestrians may be restricted in some areas and that more details could be shared as work progresses.

Several speakers asked specifically about chemical components reportedly found on grassy areas. A resident said they had been told by “Ranger Riley of the DCR” that some chemicals were found near turf areas and asked whether those materials had been removed, whether components were relocated to another area, and what had been discovered. The presenter said they could provide more historical context and that some items had been collected and would be checked, but did not provide a full inventory during the meeting.

Residents also pressed whether the city’s apparent cost savings—described by a speaker as the project team having secured “the best contract” that reduced overall spending—meant some materials were left in place. The presenter confirmed the team identified a favorable contract and said that while not everything had yet been removed from the site, staff were tracking materials and would provide additional details later.

The public sought clarity about a nearby train corridor and planned walkways; the presenter said there are several design concepts under consideration and that a pedestrian path is planned in some proposals. Multiple residents asked whether there could be further unexpected costs; the presenter said detailed equipment‑cost figures were not immediately available but could be provided in follow‑up.

The meeting record shows no formal determination on the status of the chemicals during the session. Officials invited residents to submit specific questions and said more documentation and follow‑up would be available as the project progresses.