Johnston Reporter

Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) celebrated the completion of the structural framework of the new Swift Creek Elementary school with a topping out ceremony.

The event was hosted by Balfour Beatty, general contractors for the Swift Creek Elementary project. JCPS officials, project management team members, and community members attended to witness the progress of the building.

“JCPS is growing and expanding and is doing so with the specific needs of the community in mind,” said Facilities Design and Construction Project Manager Zach Armstrong. JCPS Superintendent Dr. Eric C. Bracy added, “It is amazing to see the progress that has been made on the building and the entire worksite altogether. A few months ago we were breaking ground, and now to witness the raising of the beam is unbelievable. It is exciting indeed.”

Swift Creek Elementary will have a capacity for 939 Pre-K through fifth-grade students. The nearly 115,877 square foot, two-story design features a shared cafeteria, auditorium, and gym space.

The state-of-the-art building aims to provide unique learning and work spaces conducive to academic and professional success while ensuring a safe and secure environment for students and staff.

Johnston County Board of Education member Kevin Donovan and Johnston County Board Chair Lyn Andrews joined Chief of Facilities and Construction Brooks Moore for a walk-through of the project.

The highly anticipated project is expected to be completed in Fall 2025. The Johnston County community anticipates relief from overcrowding once Swift Creek Elementary opens its doors. “We are looking forward to the completion of Swift Creek Elementary and seeing the additional learning spaces provided for our students,” added Dr. Bracy.

The new school will alleviate overcrowding at Polenta, Cleveland, West View, McGee’s Crossroads, Dixon Road, Four Oaks, and Wilson's Mills elementary schools.

Armstrong emphasized that as JCPS grows in population it remains imperative to provide educational spaces that meet associated needs: “As our population continues to increase it will be imperative that we continue to provide educational spaces that meet those needs.”

Today's milestone event marks one among many developments within JCPS as it expands both in size and academic proficiency. Swift Creek Elementary aims to deliver top-notch education for many students in Johnston County.