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To the editor, residents, and town officials:

I am writing to present a series of coordinated proposals regarding key municipal properties in Ipswich. These recommendations are designed to advance our community’s long-term well-being, preserve our historic assets, address current infrastructure needs, and maintain affordability for residents.

Below, I outline each property proposal, supported by relevant assessments, comparative cost considerations, and an emphasis on community benefits. 

EBSCO building proposal – Combined Doyon and Winthrop schools 

1. Facility assessment: Either of the EBSCO buildings offers a structurally sound foundation, anticipated to remain viable for 100+ years. The facility has modern features, including recent window replacements, updated heating and air conditioning systems, elevators, emergency exits, and a secured entrance pass card system. Building 1 has a gymnasium in the basement, and fenced rear parking (potential for playground conversion) further enhances adaptability. 

2. Cost comparison: A formal site visit with teacher participation is recommended to assess the building’s suitability for educational use. Industry studies indicate that adaptive reuse projects (converting existing commercial buildings to educational facilities) can realize cost savings of 15–25% compared to new construction, primarily due to reduced foundation and structural expenses (see U.S. Department of Education, “Best Practices in School Facility Reuse,” 2022). 

3. Community benefits: The site is not located on wetlands, minimizing environmental permitting challenges. Converting the EBSCO building preserves a historic structure, supporting Ipswich’s heritage while reducing the environmental footprint associated with demolition and new construction. 

4. Traffic and access: The adjacent street could be made one-way from the railroad gathering area to facilitate safe bus and parent drop-offs, improving traffic flow and student safety. 

Winthrop school property – Public safety building conversion 

1. Conversion plan: The Winthrop School’s brick construction and solid foundation make it well-suited for adaptive reuse as a public safety facility. The two-story layout can accommodate both police and fire departments, with additional bays to extend the current fire house. 

2. Remodeling vs. new construction: Remodeling costs are generally 20–30% lower than new public safety building construction (National Institute of Building Sciences, “Public Safety Facility Cost Analysis,” 2021), representing significant taxpayer savings. 

3. Facility features: The existing cafeteria can support meal preparation, the gym area can serve as a fitness center for staff, and current room layouts are adaptable for administrative offices. Ample on-site parking is available. 

4. Community and historic value: The property is not on wetlands and offers historic preservation opportunities, aligning with Ipswich’s commitment to maintaining its architectural legacy. 

Police station reuse – Senior and affordable housing 

1. Redevelopment options: The brick police station, with its solid foundation and non-wetland site, is well-suited for redevelopment as senior or accessible housing. Sale of the building for development could generate revenue for the town. 

2. Housing proposals: One-bedroom apartments or condominium units would allow older residents to downsize from larger homes, supporting “aging in place.” This aligns with best practices in community planning, which emphasize the importance of housing diversity and affordability (AARP Livable Communities Report, 2023). 

3. Rationale: Providing ownership and rental options at this location would help retain long-standing residents and maintain community stability. 

Pineswamp Road property – Townhouse development 

1. Development plan: The proposal calls for a row of townhouses along Pineswamp Road, with parking situated behind the units to avoid encroaching on nearby wetlands. This approach balances development with environmental stewardship. 

2. Design considerations: Homes would be designed to complement the historic and neighborhood character of the area. A possible “2-over-1” design would provide accessible options for a range of residents. 

3. Funding use: Proceeds from the sale of this property could be allocated to offset costs associated with the EBSCO building conversion, maximizing municipal resources. 

1. Community vision: The Doyon school property (17+ acres) could be sold to a developer specializing in tiny and small home communities, with the project named “Doyon Village” in honor of the family’s legacy. 

2. Housing plan: The development would feature cul-de-sacs, each with 7 to 8 homes on approximately 1/8 acre, with one- to two-bedroom efficiency homes designed for seniors and those requiring wheelchair accessibility. Loft areas could accommodate caregivers or visitors. 

3. Starter homes: Additional cul-de-sacs would offer 650–1,000 sq. ft. two-bedroom homes for singles and young couples, with possible restrictions on occupancy to maintain affordability. 

4. Affordability measures: Homes would be sold at cost to build, with resale values limited to cost-of-living adjustments, ensuring long-term affordability for elderly and lower-income residents without the need for ongoing subsidies. This approach is supported by studies indicating that resale-restricted affordable homeownership preserves community affordability more effectively than subsidy-based models (Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, 2021). 

Community impact and long-term benefits 

1. Historic preservation: These proposals prioritize the conservation of Ipswich’s historic buildings, reducing the need for demolition and new construction, and supporting the town’s unique character. 

2. Infrastructure efficiency: By utilizing existing structures and limiting new development, these plans minimize additional strain on water, sewer, and traffic infrastructure. 

3. Fiscal responsibility: Adaptive reuse and targeted development strategies are projected to reduce overall capital expenditures and provide new revenue streams, ultimately benefiting the taxpayer base. 

4. Community continuity: These proposals are designed to enable long-term residents — particularly seniors and those with limited incomes — to remain in Ipswich, while accommodating future generations in affordable and accessible housing. 

Conclusion 

I respectfully urge the Select Board to consider these alternatives as a means to advance long-awaited municipal projects while preserving the financial stability and character of Ipswich. By prioritizing adaptive reuse, historic preservation, and community-focused development, we can ensure that Ipswich remains a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable place for all residents. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

Sincerely, 

Linda Riley 
Ipswich

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