Calhoun Community College and Athens State University have broken ground on the first residence hall for the Alabama Center for the Arts in Decatur.
The Alabama Center for the Arts is a partnership among Calhoun, Athens State and the city of Decatur that provides a place to learn for those interested in a career or hobby in the arts. Those interested in a career can complete an associate degree from Calhoun and continue under the same roof to complete a bachelor’s degree from Athens State.
“I recall when I first interviewed to be the president of Athens State University, one of the things that stood out in my mind was the dynamic and close-knit relationship between Calhoun and Athens State,” said Phillip Way, Athens State president. “It is one that I have watched continue to grow strongly and as a result, our collaborative effort through the ACA continues to grow as well.”
The three-story, 43,474-square-foot residence hall will include 49 apartments with a mix of 11 studio, 19 one-bedroom and 19 two-bedroom units, for a total of 68 beds. Students who live in the dorm will have a complete kitchen, washer and dryer and other amenities like study areas with computer labs on all three floors. The building is also equipped with a 250-miles-per-hour storm shelter, a post office, leasing office, keyless entry access cards and video surveillance cameras posted on all exterior entrances for safety.
Part of the residence hall construction cost will be supported with $15 million from the state’s Public School and College Authority bond issue.
“What a great day for the ACA and its students, as they will now have student housing right around the corner from its site. This will make a tremendous impact on not only the future growth of the ACA, but for downtown Decatur,” said state Sen. Arthur Orr.
Century Construction is preparing the site to begin construction as soon as possible.
