Grow lights in the Vertical Harvest Greenhouse in Jackson glow through spaces between curtains on a recent evening. Set to open soon, the three-story 1,300 square-foot hydroponic garden will grow produce year-round and provide jobs for adults with developmental disabilities. Operators of the public-private partnership are seeking to stop the light leakage, so future evening views will likely be less dazzling.
Built on 1/10th of an acre adjacent to the town parking garage, the greenhouse will yield the equivalent of a five-acre plot. Glass walls will take advantage of sunshine and lights will ensure year-round produce. High-pressure sodium light bulbs grow tomatoes while LEDs will shine on lettuce and other crops — accounting for the different colors.