JOHNSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — The final beam was placed atop Johnston's newest elementary school on Tuesday morning. Members of the public were invited to sign the beam before it was lifted onto the Atwood Avenue building at 10:30 a.m. Funding for the new building was approved by voters during a special election in May 2022. The $215 million bond is paying for all of the elementary schools in the town to be consolidated into one brand-new building. The money is also funding upgrades to Ferri Middle and Johnston High schools, and transforming an existing elementary school into an early childhood center. The state will reimburse the town for roughly 56% of the costs, about $120 million, paid for from past statewide school bonds. Students will remain at their current schools until the building is ready, which is expected to open in time for the 2026-2027 school year. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW