Howenstine school site will soon become greenhouse

A greenhouse will be going up on the grounds of the former Howenstine High School after the TUSD Governing Board agreed to lease space to Merchant’s Garden Agrotech.

The Tucson-based business grows vegetables in a computer-controlled greenhouse year-round for commercial purposes, using 90 percent less water than traditional farming.

Under the agreement approved Tuesday, Merchant’s Garden will lease 10,000 square feet of ground space, plus one modular building, for $5,250 a year.

After two years, it will expand to 30,000 square feet and the rent will increase to $15,250 a year.

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In addition to the benefit of bringing farming into the city, Merchant’s Garden will allow TUSD students access to the growing facility for educational workshops and tours focusing on nutrition and agriculture.

Until recently, Howenstine, 555 S. Tucson Boulevard, was being rented by an organization serving autistic children. The Intermountain Centers for Human Development has since relocated to another closed TUSD school.

Merchant’s Garden will be responsible for paying all utility bills connected to the operation, making improvements to the property and restoring it upon vacating.