BUTLER TWP— A college building housing all student services may be open in July 2009 with action taken Wednesday.

The Butler County Community College board of directors approved a motion that allows the college to select an architect and proceed with the $6.6 million project.

The board was able to start this next part of the college's master plan because the administration was told in late October it was on the list for state funding. Half of the project will be funded by the state. President Cynthia Azari said the college is looking at options for funding the remaining cost, including from the county, a capital campaign and taking on debt.

The building will most likely be a 30,000-square-foot, two-story building. The first floor will have a lounge, enrollment, switchboard and police, vice president of student services John Kearney said in his presentation. Student life, clubs, another lounge, offices, and a bookstore are expected for the second floor.

"The first thing students will see when they walk in would be a welcome center," Kearney said.

Kearney, Azari and others said the building is needed because the services that new students need are spread across campus and this will give students a chance to do everything in one spot.

Constructing the building in a small parking lot also requires moving a road that cuts through campus. All traffic will be directed in a loop around campus.

David Silk, vice president of finance and administration, said estimated costs are $5.1 million for construction during a three-year period, $280,000 for an architect, $550,000 for road improvements, $465,000 for furnishings and $160,000 for management expenses.