(Orange, MA) The Town of Orange is set to begin the demolition of the Dexter Park Elementary School Monday, August 28th. Dexter Park was built in 1951 and after experiencing boiler and heater problems, along with asbestos and a leaking roof, the school received a Category 4 rating from the Massachusetts School Building Authority in 2006, the worst rating possible requiring substantial repairs or replacement. The building was reportedly falling down and could no longer safely house students.
Since the school received the Category 4 rating, the town decided to consolidate Dexter Park and Fisher Hill Elementary Schools by expanding Fisher Hill’s building, one of the approximately 20 options explored. The new building is ready to open for students this fall, with classes begging September 7th.
While demolition of the Dexter Park school is underway, expect possible traffic and loud noises. The asbestos in the building had previously been removed and as an added layer of protection, crews will be spraying to reduce dust during the demolition.