Holyoke school project near completion; temporary occupancy approved, ribbon cutting set

The Holyoke City School Building Committee heard on Tuesday that the new school building is largely finished, can open under a temporary certificate of occupancy and remains under budget, project staff said.

Committee members were told the contractor is completing punch-list work, systems have been started up and interior and exterior clean-up is nearly finished, and staff expect the building to be ready for teachers and students in time for the start of school. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 4:15 p.m., followed by public tours from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.

The update matters because the project’s readiness and outstanding technical approvals determine whether the school can receive a full certificate of occupancy and open for students without delay. Committee members raised questions about final exterior work, safety-system testing and how remaining contingency funds can be used.

Chris, a project staff member, told the committee, “I don't have any updated photos. Josh, unfortunately, was on vacation the last few days, but I can give an update as to where we are with the project. As you know, school starting in the next week, the contractor's been finishing up, punch…