CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. (WPRI) — Work is officially halfway done for a new high school in Central Falls. Mayor Maria Rivera joined state and district leaders Tuesday afternoon for a special "topping out" ceremony, in which the final steel beam was put into place. "We are thrilled to reach this important moment in the construction of our brand-new high school," Rivera said. "For too long, our students and teachers have endured a century-old building that no longer serves the needs of modern education." "This new state-of-the-art facility will empower our students and give our teachers the tools they need to foster learning and success," she continued. The city broke ground on the new high school back in April. It will eventually replace the current, nearly 100-year-old school building, in a new location across the city at the corner of Lonsdale and Higginson avenues. "This structure will serve as a beacon of hope and a hub for our community, bringing together students, families, and educators in ways that will transform lives for generations to come," Central Falls Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Downey Toledo said. Though Rivera described the new high school as being a "symbol of progress," she acknowledged that more still needs to be done. "We are committed to working together — city, state and community partners — to ensure that our students receive the comprehensive support they need to thrive," she said. Central Falls secured more than $93 million in a bond from the Rhode Island Health and Educational Building Corporation. The entire project will cost $108 million total. The new high school is set to be completed by 2026. (Courtesy: City of Central Falls)(Courtesy: City of Central Falls)(Courtesy: City of Central Falls)(Courtesy: City of Central Falls) Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW