Foundations for the campus’ newest building, a laboratory and classroom building for science and math, began on July 1.

The 73,000-square-foot building will replace the current 22,000-square-foot Beach Building that was completed in 1966.

The building, at the corner of Billy Graham Avenue and Ocoee Street will feature a central commons area that connects two separate wings. The building will have have a total “seat-space” for 640 students, a 150-seat lecture hall, thirteen classrooms, ten laboratories, two computer labs and 30 faculty offices.

In the construction process, the first wing with the laboratories will be completed. In the second phase of the project, the Beach Building will be demolished to make room for the second wing. A preliminary schedule estimates the project will be completed for occupancy in Fall 2009.

“We are all very excited about the progress toward the new science building,” Science professor Matthew Krepps said. “I have enjoyed watching the site change–I make it a point to drive past on 15th street every few days. Now that you can actually see the footprint of the laboratory wing, one can start to realize just how expansive the building is going to be.”

Along with the School of Religion building, set to be completed later this semester, the new building is a part of the Press Toward the Mark campaign. The campaign publicly began during Celebration 2006, with a goal to raise $25 million for the construction of a new science building, School of Religion building and Health Clinic, as well as enlarge the campus space.

The labs serve 200 students in chemistry, organic chemistry, molecular cell biology, dissection, general biology and physical science.

“I am so grateful to Dr. Conn and all of the donors who took the time to have a conversation together about all of the exciting things taking place in the science department, how we may better prepare our students to serve in His kingdom and our vision of the future,” Krepps said.