File contents

While I appreciate the coverage the Chelmsford Independent provided on the potential use of the former Middlesex Training School located at 255 Princeton Street in N. Chelmsford, MA, I feel that some information was not provided to the readers.  
The Chelmsford Housing Authority is often asked by elected officials, concerned neighborhood groups and other interested parties - "Are there any sites in Chelmsford that could be re-developed for housing instead of destroying the limited open space that Chelmsford has?" One of my responses has been that the land owned by the University of Massachusetts formerly known as the Middlesex Training School should be considered.  In 1979, a local grassroots organization supported  by Dr. Albert Boulanger from the University of Lowell College of Health Professionals with broad based community support proposed a retirement complex that would have consisted of housing, education and recreation at that site.  When the University made a decision to use the site for educational purposes, many in the community were looking forward to seeing the site "re-developed." Anyone who drives through the site will see that some of the buildings are boarded up and some are just falling apart.  The site is in dire need of attention as the buildings are over 100 years old and pose a threat the safety of our response personnel if there was ever a fire.  While they look abandoned, there are no markings indicating that fire personnel should not enter.  These buildings are owned by the State and if the land was to ever come up for sale, the Town would have the right of first refusal.  
If the Town is serious about re-developing first, conversations within the community should begin so the Town has a plan.  Pro-active is always better than re-active. So when residents ask the question, "Is there anywhere in Town that could be re-developed for housing?"  My response remains, the former Middlesex Training School should be a site the Town looks at.  This 34 acre site could be re-developed in a way that it preserves the historic nature of the buildings, preserves a majority of the open space and gives something back to the community in the form of housing, small business and educational opportunities.  Re-development of this site is not something that can be accomplished by one person or one office.  It will take a community. 
 
David J. Hedison
Executive Director
Chelmsford Housing Authority
_