Lowell – The City of Lowell and the Lowell School Department are pleased to announce plans to acquire the parcels located at 50-68 Dracut Street and 223 & 245 University Ave, the former site of the St. Jeanne d’Arc private school.

The purchase, at a cost of $2.4 million, is scheduled for a vote by the School Committee on May 15, 2024, and by the Lowell City Council on May 21, 2024, with a tentative closing date of May 24, 2024.

The acquisition of the site is a significant step forward in addressing a long-standing issue of space constraints within the Lowell Public Schools (LPS) system. The ability to utilize Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds for various needs has allowed the allocation of local funds toward this purchase, which is expected to have a positive impact on Lowell families for generations to come.

“It is exciting to have the opportunity to purchase a building that has already been used as a school for more than 70 years,” said Superintendent of Schools Liam Skinner. “This project will provide a solution to some of the district’s pressing space needs and represents the wonderful collaborative relationship between the City and School administrations as we work together toward the common goal of ensuring a top-quality education for every child in Lowell.”

Built in 1951, the building will require significant work to meet Americans with Disabilities (ADA) compliance and other necessary repairs and upgrades before it can be occupied by students, teachers, and staff. The City has committed to prioritizing this work over the next few years.

“I would like to thank both the Superintendent and the City Manager for working in conjunction to purchase the buildings,” said Mayor Daniel P. Rourke. “The partnership between the City and School Department has never been stronger, and this is yet another example.”

“The acquisition of the former St. Jeanne d’Arc site is a big step for Lowell and shows our commitment to education,” said City Manager Thomas A. Golden, Jr. “We’re proud to work in partnership with the School Department in support of Lowell as a city that prioritizes education and values the success of every student.”

This initiative marks a milestone in the ongoing partnership between the School Department and the City, demonstrating a shared dedication to providing an exceptional educational experience to all LPS students.