CLARKS SUMMIT, Pa.—Construction on a $4.5 million, 62,000-square-foot expansion of the Phelps Student Center at Baptist Bible College & Seminary will begin in October, putting the new facility on track for a January 2011 opening to students.
The Kempton Athletic Center is named after the late Dr. Wendell Kempton, a distinguished BBC&S alumnus and benefactor. It is the largest single-building construction project on the Clarks Summit campus since the Phelps Student Center was built in 1974. The length of the expansion will prompt the relocation of the tennis courts, now across from the Quad area of campus, and the closure of the outdoor pool.
The ground-breaking ceremony will be held at 3 P.M., Friday, Oct. 9, at the construction site during the “Celebration on the Summit,” a weeklong event that includes Alumni Day, Family Day, and the annual Bible Conference. A reception in Jackson Hall for all in attendance will immediately follow the event. Also, there will be a comedy event by Michael Jr., with fireworks following. Get details, schedules, and ticket information at www.bbc.edu/celebration.
Among the features of the new building are a climbing wall, recreation area, a running track, training rooms, weight and aerobic rooms, locker rooms, new stage area, and added office space. The expansion is the first phase of a two-phase reconstruction of student facilities. The second phase will place a connector between the existing student center and the Kempton Athletic Center. The estimated cost of the second phase is $8 million. Work on phase 2 is expected to be completed within three to four years.
Features of the second phase will include an auditorium, classrooms, renovations to the kitchen and food service area, upgrades to the entry and surrounding areas, and reconfiguration of other spaces. Giving toward the project is available online at www.bbc.edu/donate.
For details on planned giving and other options, contact Institutional Advancement at 570.585.9301 or advancement@bbc.edu.
