Medeiros Farm Project Draws Bids

The contract for architectural services for the Medeiros Farm project has attracted a record number of bids, according to Seekonk Town Administrator Shawn Cadime.

Cadime told the Select Board at their December 3 meeting the Medeiros Farm Committee would be meeting in January to discuss the RFPs (request for proposals).

40 firms have expressed interest, which Cadime said is “the highest I’ve seen” for architectural services.”

The interviews will be scheduled for January 26.A recommendation may be ready for the Board’s February 4 meeting.

The Town of Seekonk bought the property on Lincoln and Elm Street for $2 million. At the May 2023 Town Meeting, the Town voted to appropriate $150,000 from the Community Preservation Fund  to seek, hire, and direct a consultant to develop a master plan for the Medeiros Farm project at Elm Street and Lincoln Street. A seven member committee was appointed to oversee the project.

The Medeiros Farm Recreation and Park Master Plan outlines four objectives: active recreation, passive recreation, historic preservation, and a Community Park.

Cadime said the Select Board has entered into a contract for $216,000 for OPM (Office of the Project Manager) services.

Opponents of the project were unsuccessful in their attempt to rescind $825,000 in funding at the November Town Meeting.

At the committee’s September 29 meeting, residents expressed concerns about multiple soccer fields being placed on the land.

Ken Kazarian, who opposes the project, has requested for more studies to be conducted.

“We’re in the process of going out for designer services, so what was approved at the last town meeting was for design services,” Cadime explained. “That’s going to give us detailed construction documents and design for that property. No construction will take place. It has to come back to Town Meeting. At that point we will have a total dollar amount associated with the project if it’s phased or not phased, that will be presented. We’re looking to do the studies that are being requested.”