Chicopee Purchases Exchange Street Property for Public Schools Administrative Offices

CHICOPEE — Last week, the city of Chicopee finalized the purchase of the Westfield Bank buildings located at 219 and 225-233 Exchange St. The facility will serve as the new administrative offices for Chicopee Public Schools.

The property is move-in ready, located on a public bus route, and provides sufficient space to accommodate all School Department administrative offices. Its central location near City Hall and other municipal resources will improve accessibility and coordination among city departments.

The school administration plans to relocate from its current leased offices at Dulong Circle to its permanent home on Exchange Street over the summer, minimizing disruption during the school year.

The 1.27-acre property, situated in the heart of Chicopee Center, offers ample parking for staff and visitors, is fully accessible, and features well-maintained buildings. Following a comprehensive space and needs assessment, the Exchange Street facility was determined to best meet the district’s administrative requirements.

The building includes private offices, conference rooms, numerous workstations, break rooms, a large training room, storage areas, dedicated IT space, and mechanical rooms. The new location will also allow the School Department to consolidate administrative functions that were previously housed at multiple locations throughout the city.

The city purchased the property for $2,360,000, along with the furnishings for an additional $20,000. Thanks to the city’s financial planning and the support of the City Council, the purchase was made directly using available municipal funds.

“This was a total team effort, from the needs assessment and RFP process to the reviews, title examination, and funding of this purchase,” Chicopee Mayor John Vieau said. “I am proud of our collective ability to provide this centrally located office, bringing greater efficiency and convenience to the parents, students, and families of Chicopee.”

The transaction was facilitated by the Colvest Group on behalf of Westfield Bank. Both organizations worked closely with the city throughout the process, accommodating numerous site visits by city officials, members of the City Council, school administrators and staff, and various inspectors. The city extends its appreciation to the Colvest Group and Westfield Bank for their cooperation and professionalism.

Marcus Ware, superintendent of Chicopee Public Schools, emphasized the benefits of the new location. “This new facility will allow the School Department to work more closely with city departments, creating better coordination and more efficient operations for residents, parents, and, most importantly, our students,” he said. “Having departments located closer together will make it easier to serve the public and strengthen collaboration across city government.”