School leaders share progress on Richmond High School for the Arts construction

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond Public Schools (RPS) officials provided an update on the construction of the new Richmond High School for the Arts, highlighting major progress and plans for the state-of-the-art facility.

The roughly $140 million project is on track to be completed by the winter of next year. Once finished, the school will serve about 1,800 students and offer a wide range of arts-focused amenities.

“There are some incredible things planned to make this the premier arts high school in Central Virginia,” said RPS Superintendent Jason Kamras.

(Photo courtesy: 8News)

(Photo courtesy: Richmond Public Schools)

(Photo courtesy: Richmond Public Schools)

(Photo courtesy: Richmond Public Schools)

(Photo courtesy: Richmond Public Schools)

During the update, construction managers shared that crews are currently working on key structural components, including foundations, plumbing and electrical systems. Once those are complete, interior work will begin to shape the final look and feel of the building.

“We are currently working on big structural pieces, particularly the foundations, plumbing and electrical,” said Kimberly Wilson, RPS construction manager. “Once those are replaced, we can move to really filling out this building and making it beautiful.”

The new campus will feature several standout amenities, including a central courtyard and a 14,000-square-foot auditorium, designed to support the school’s performing arts focus.

“As our kids walked into the building this week, they knew full well that they will be the recipients of this new building,” said Kevin Olds, principal of the high school. “For that, we are extremely grateful and appreciate it.”

Kamras emphasized the school’s commitment to a broad range of artistic programs.

“Everything from what you might expect—dance and music and art—but also video and podcasting and so much more,” Kamras said.

Kamras also used the update as an opportunity to urge state leaders to invest more in school infrastructure across Virginia, especially in older Title I schools.

“The average age of our Title I schools, which is most of our schools, is 86 years,” Kamras said. “As we get into the coming years, it is going to be absolutely critical, not just here in Richmond, but around the Commonwealth. This is a dire need, so we will continue to fight for that.”

Once the new facility is completed, the old school building will be demolished and converted into an athletics field and facility.