Contractor Picked for High School Athletic Complex Upgrade

With construction set to begin June 8, the project to upgrade Attleboro High School's athletic facility appears to have a contractor in charge. The city's building commission voted unanimously to award the contract to Lakeville-based Green Acres Landscape & Construction at the recommendation of project designer Gale Associates.

Green Acres offered the lowest bid of four firms that applied for the contract with $2.81 million, significantly lower than the $3.55 million designated to the project by the city council in January. With extra wiggle room in the cost, the city will be able to add extra "wish list" features to the project on top of the plan for replacing the deteriorated track and changing the grass field to a synthetic surface.

The extra features include a flagpole, decorative arch and columns for the entrance, visitor bleachers and improved lighting. These and other features will bring the expected total cost to $3.02 million. The city will also set aside a contingency fund of a little more than $280,000 to cover unanticipated costs. 

The city and Attleboro High are conducting a fundraising campaign to pay for a new concession stand and restrooms. The goal is to raise $600,000. A website has been set up at www.ahsstadiumrenovation.com for the campaign. 

The project is expected to be completed in time for the Bombardiers' first home football game in September.