With only days remaining before students return to school, one Warren County elementary school’s cafeteria is pushing the deadline for completion.

A temporary certificate of occupancy was issued for West Elementary on Aug. 3 so lunch can be served on Aug. 12.

“Approximately two hours ago, we did receive a temporary certificate of occupancy for the kitchen and cafeteria,” said Director of Schools Grant Swallows, to members of the county Education Committee. “That was great news.”

Temporary certificates can be issued for a portion or portions of a building which may safely be occupied prior to final completion.

A new cafeteria and kitchen were included in the renovation and expansion at West. The old cafeteria and kitchen were to be converted into a computer lab and new library.

“They are still working on a few things with the new library section,” said Swallows. “We are hopeful to be able to use that when school resumes. I don’t have a great update for you. There was a construction meeting, but I missed it. I was involved in a two-hour Facebook meeting.”

Swallows toured the school recently and expressed approval for the work. 

“The project is really well done,” he said. “We are excited about the upgrades to that school.”

Completion date for the West Elementary renovation and expansion project is Sept. 3.