CRANBERRY TWP — Officials gathered Thursday at Butler County Community College's Cranberry campus for a grand re-opening ceremony and open house, celebrating the completion of renovations started 10 months ago and offering prospective students a better look at the schools' offerings.

The afternoon festivities gave attendees an up-close look at the latest additions and upgrades.

BC3 at Cranberry Director Lauren Buchanan introduced officials and thanked staff and students for their patience throughout the renovation process.

The renovations began last year and cost around $1.2 million to complete, featuring improvements to the natural science lab, main lobby, restrooms and faculty offices.

BC3 President Nicholas Neupauer reminded those gathered of the history of the school. He extolled the college's affordability and accessibility for Western Pennsylvania.

Neupauer thanked the state for contributing $600,000 toward the $1.2 million project.

“When there is a project like this we roll up our sleeves and get the job done,” Neupauer said.

Cranberry Township assistant township manager Dan Santoro extolled BC3's ability to offer its students the opportunity for a higher education for an affordable price.

“It helps make higher education more affordable and that's not a trivial feat,” he said.

Officials were then invited to tour the facility and learn more about the school's offerings.

The 22,500-square-foot building opened in January 1990 at 250 Executive Drive in Cranberry Township. The renovations began June 25.

For more information about BC3 or to look into enrollment opportunities, visit their website at https://www.bc3.edu.