Hawaii Department of Education officials, along with community leaders and Farrington High School alumni, marked a significant milestone Friday by breaking ground on a new $60 million gym and music building at the school.

The ambitious construction project will create a three-story multi-purpose facility designed to house the school’s gymnasium, music rooms, locker areas, and physical education spaces. Scheduled for completion in 2027, this new building will serve Farrington’s nearly 2,100 students and represents a major step forward in the modernization of the 94-year-old campus.

Contracted to Ralph S. Inouye Co. Ltd., the building will be constructed over the site of the school’s former swimming pool on the Diamond Head side of the campus, which has been out of service since 1998.

“This new gym and music facility will give our students modern, high-quality spaces that support athletics, arts and physical education,” said Superintendent Keith Hayashi. “Each phase of this long-term effort is about more than buildings. It’s creating opportunities and investing in our students’ futures. We’re grateful to our legislators, community leaders, businesses and proud Farrington alumni for helping make this vision a reality.”

Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke emphasized the community impact of the project: “When the people at the state, county and businesses invest in this community, it sends a message that every child who’s going to Farrington that people care about you. And because of that, we expect the most from this community, the school and its students.”

The gym and music building is a core element of a broader, phased modernization plan aimed at renovating and reconfiguring the aging campus. Beyond providing updated facilities, the project seeks to foster a supportive environment that nurtures student success in academics, arts, and athletics.

Additional phases of the modernization plan include upgrades to classrooms, technology infrastructure, and outdoor spaces, reflecting the department’s commitment to creating a safe and inspiring learning environment for current and future students.

School administrators and community partners view the project as a symbol of long-term investment in education and community development, underscoring the importance of providing students with spaces that promote well-being, creativity, and physical fitness.

Originally reported by Spectrum News.