State Upholds Approval For Technical School Project In Wakefield

WAKEFIELD, Mass. — A state agency has reaffirmed that the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational High School’s construction project complies with wetlands protection laws, clearing a path forward for the stalled access road and driveway work.

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Appeals and Dispute Resolution earlier this month upheld a previous ruling allowing construction of a new school building and associated infrastructure, including a driveway to Farm Street, according to a school statement.

In 2023, the Wakefield Conservation Commission denied a key permit for the project, citing potential violations of state wetlands laws. Northeast Metro Tech appealed the denial to the Department of Environmental Protection, which ruled in the school's favor.

A group of 10 residents challenged that order, triggering a review by the state agency. Over the last 15 months, the office conducted hearings and reviewed evidence. During that time, construction of some project elements remained on hold.

The state's decision concluded that the project would not harm wetlands and complies with all relevant environmental regulations.

The school’s building project aims to expand enrollment capacity from 1,252 to 1,600 students. It also plans to add three new vocational programs: Marketing, Biotechnology, and Medical Assisting.

While the school has kept the overall project on schedule, further delays to the access road could impact both costs and timelines.

More information on the project is available by clicking here.