GADSDEN, Ala. (AP) — Gadsden State Community College received a $25 million bond issue for a construction project at the school campus, university officials said.

President Dr. Martha Lavender said the bond will be used to construct a new science building on the college’s East Broad campus, the Gadsden Times reported. In addition, the Cheaha Career Center on the Ayers Campus and renovations to Allen Hall on the Wallace Drive Campus.

The Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees approved the bond issue March 15.

ACCS Chancellor Jimmy Baker confirmed the bond issue.

“The new construction and renovations are consistent with Gadsden State’s strategic plan, which we define as the 3I’s — instruction, infrastructure and institution,” Lavender said. “Our plan focuses on not only quality educational programming and continuous improvement, but also on addressing the infrastructure needs of aging facilities. Students learn best in an environment that is stimulating, conducive to learning and student-friendly.”

The new science building will replace 50-year-old Browder Hall, which is located on the Wallace Drive campus.

“The new building will have over 57,000-square-feet of classrooms, laboratories, offices, an auditorium and a tornado shelter,” Lavender said. “The science building brings a significant program to the East Broad Campus and essentially unifies the Wallace Drive and East Broad campuses.”

Allen Hall, the oldest building on the Wallace Drive campus, will include renovations to upgrade bathrooms, electrical, plumbing and heating/cooling systems. Browder Hall has space and technology limitations as well as other issues associated with the age of the building.

“Allen Hall will adequately and comfortably serve students in 22 classrooms and labs and two student gathering areas,” Lavender said. “In addition to improving instructional space, the renovation enhances energy efficiencies of the building.”

Construction contracts and planning must be executed by March 31, 2018.