“I think this is something that will certainly have a big impact on their students,” said Allegany County Commission President Jake Shade, “now, and for many years to come.”
The $14.6 million, three-phase project will completely renovate the current building, providing students with an updated facility suited for technology based learning.
“It’s more than just a facelift renovation,” Cynthia Bambara, the college’s president, said.
The $4 million local contribution guarantees a state match of $10 million, with the remaining funds being paid by ACM.
Built in 1975, the current technology building is outdated with failing infrastructure.
The first phase of the project, which is nearly 50 percent complete, will bring a new roof, HVAC system and handicap accessibility to the structure.
The final two phases will bring the facility up to standard technology based learning by constructing flexible learning classrooms equipped with smart boards, circular desks, monitors and rotating floors.
“The years of sitting in rows and being talked at are over,” said Kurt W. Hoffman, ACM’s senior vice president of instructional and student affairs. “Especially in the tech building.”
ACM officials said the upgraded technology building would include a forensics lab, as well as space for robotics and cybersecurity majors.
They expect the new building to bring economic development to the region.
“We would have these kids graduating that would be a draw for some tech company to come in,” Hoffman said.
©2018 the Cumberland Times News (Cumberland, Md.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
