WORCESTER—The Worcester School Committee is weighing the potential use of two former Becker College properties as the city council seeks clarity on the future of the vacant buildings.
The properties—located at 51 and 61 Sever St.—were purchased by the city in 2021 for $4.5 million and have served various functions since, though not for Worcester Public Schools. At its meeting Thursday, the school committee signaled interest in assessing whether the buildings could meet district needs.
City Councilor Khrystian King brought the issue before the committee, asking for clarification on the district’s position regarding the city-owned sites. Committee Member Susan Mailman introduced a motion to consider the properties’ value to the district.
“We’re not in a position as a city or a school department to give away buildings when we have big needs in our system,” Mailman said, noting that while the sites require updates, they are in better condition than some existing school facilities.
Member Maureen Binienda said city engineers had previously compiled a report on the buildings’ conditions and renovation needs. She requested that the committee review those records to help evaluate the sites’ potential.
“I would like to see if we can get a copy of that report, which is already done on the buildings, and what needs to be done, and see what the cost might be,” Binienda said.
Member Jermaine Johnson moved to include cost estimates in a future discussion, citing district Chief Financial Officer Brian Allen—who was not present—as the likely source for those figures.
Superintendent Dr. Rachel Monárrez provided preliminary context, stating that addressing major issues at 61 Sever St. alone could cost up to $6 million. That estimate includes HVAC upgrades, ADA compliance, and roof and window repairs. She also pointed out that restrictions on bus access at the location may limit its use as a K–12 facility, making it ineligible for Massachusetts School Building Authority funding.
The committee tabled the item for a future meeting, with plans to review both the engineering report and financial projections.
Jason Bleau, a seasoned reporter from Connecticut’s Quiet Corner, has over 11 years of news media experience. He has worked as a news anchor for WINY 1350 AM, contributed to Stonebridge Press publications, and covered racing as a Press Box coordinator at Thompson Speedway. Outside journalism, he is a movie enthusiast, freelance film reviewer, banker, and solo musician. He can be reached at bleau.jason@yahoo.com
