With neighbors help, Brady School gets a facelift
In another example of involved citizens making a difference, the once-neglected Brady School (now home to the Lowell Health Department) is finally getting a facelift—proving yet again that activism is the way to make things happen. Formerly a proud symbol of colonial revival craftsmanship, the Brady School (the old Pine Street School) had been stripped of its asbestos siding several years ago and left to the forces of nature like a coatless man on a winter’s day. Built in 1897, the structure immediately began to suffer from the exposure, and the resulting neglect caught the attention of a group of concerned neighbors and active members of the Friends of Tyler Park. Under the persistent efforts of this group, most notably FOTP President Jay Mason (aka my husband), calls were made to councilors and anyone willing to listen. The Friends wanted to know when the City, who owns the building and removed its siding, was going to repair it. With each season of exposure taking its toll, time was running out. Councilor Bud Caulfield was contacted and made a motion, asking the city to provide $75K to begin repairs. This was not enough and so State Rep. Kevin Murphy was also contacted about the need for funding. He was able to secure a state match in funds. The combined $150K is enough to repair, paint, and side the building using new state-of-the-art products that have better insulation properties and need less maintenance. Once again, the Friends of Tyler Park have shown that involved citizens and a government willing to listen can initiate public-private partnerships that benefit an entire community.