New Wellesley High School plans on town agenda this week

The town's Design Review Board will weigh in for the first time Wednesday night on the controversial new plan to rebuild Wellesley High School.

The board is scheduled to complete its review of the proposed $135 million high school project and offer a final recommendation on the design to the town's Zoning Board of Appeals, which must next review the site plan.

It will be the first time the public has heard the design review board’s findings on the matter, which will focus on limited criteria such as preservation and enhancement of landscaping, impact on open space and the town’s historical traditions and legacy, said town planner Ethan Parsons.

The meeting, which is open to the public, is slated for 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall.

Meanwhile, Wellesley officials still await a final ruling from the Massachusetts Historical Commission, which three weeks ago thew a wrench in the approval process by withholding its approval of plan to demolish the old 1938 Art Deco-style school building.

The agency demanded the town submit more proof that it adequately considered renovation options before choosing to destroy the old building.

The town needs the state commission to approve its plan by late June in order to keep to an agressive building schedule, which includes plans to solicit bids from contractors this fall, and a tentative groundbreaking in mid-2010.

-- Erica Noonan, Globe Staff