MOSES LAKE - Big Bend Community College broke ground Tuesday on a new fine arts building, expected to be ready for students by fall 2008.

The state is funding construction of the $3.2 million building, according to Public Information Officer Catherine Holestine.

"This building will enrich our students' liberal arts experience and celebrate the visual arts," stated college President Bill Bonaudi. "This building will be a beautiful addition to campus."

Bonaudi participated in the ceremony, along with Rep. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, trustees Mike Blakely, Bob Holloway, Katherine Kenison, Cecilia DeLuna-Gaeta and Felix Ramon, and Vice President Ken Turner.

The new building is going to be located adjacent to a new paved and lighted entrance to the college, located off Randolph Road, according to Holestine.

"This project is well thought out and makes economic sense," Warnick stated. "The Board of Trustees, staff and community all come together in a collaborative effort when Big Bend Community College makes a request. Just look at the Grant County Advanced Technologies Education Center."

The future 13,000 square-foot fine arts building, located southwest of administration and math buildings, includes labs for pottery, painting, drawing and computers, Holestine said.

An existing fine arts building is located next to the welding department, in building 4100.

Holestine estimated 50 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony.