Horticulture building nears temporary occupancy; ribbon cutting set for Aug. 22

Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School officials said construction on the new Horticulture Building is largely complete and they expect a temporary certificate of occupancy once a city‑approved tree‑replanting requirement is met. The school scheduled a ribbon cutting for Friday, Aug. 22, at 10:30 a.m., followed by limited open‑house access.

School leaders reported that punch‑list items remain, including paving the walkway to the new building, final electrical connections and a small round of touch‑up painting. A Department of Education safety walkthrough praised the design and construction but requested additional signage and confirmation of sight lines in spaces that will be fully equipped for student use.

"They were very, very impressed with the design," the school leader said after the walkthrough, noting the state requested additional, higher‑placed signs near emergency shutoffs so they remain visible if shop equipment or tools block sight lines. City officials approved the school’s tree‑replanting plan; the temporary certificate of occupancy will be issued when the initial planting is done, and the final certificate is expected next spring after the student‑built plantings have matured enough to meet the city’s conditions.

Construction tasks listed by the school office include spreading loam and seeding, paving the access walkway, finishing electrical outlets, painting gym or shop floors and removing construction fencing. Officials said a final round of inspections could happen within a week if those items progress on schedule.

School administrators also reported they have invitations out for the Aug. 22 ribbon cutting; roughly 50 to 60 guests were expected at the time of the meeting. The building’s temporary occupancy would allow staff and students to begin using the space while the horticulture students complete tree plantings required for permanent occupancy.

Officials asked trustees to note that some items—paving and final signage—remain outstanding and requested trustee members attend the ribbon cutting if possible. The board will receive a photo‑verified checklist from staff documenting the items the Department of Education inspected and any follow‑up actions required for full occupancy.