DANVILLE — Danville Area Community College officials and local dignitaries on Monday broke ground on a long-awaited project to expand and remodel the Mary Miller Center.

The $5.2 million project will add much-needed space for the math and science divisions including the health care programs, which have seen significant growth in the last decade.

"That's critical to this community as health care is a major employer," President Alice Jacobs said, adding the additional space will allow the college to accommodate more students, faculty and health-care programs to meet the ever-increasing demand in the community.

Named for DACC's founder and first president, the Mary Miller Center also houses the gymnasium and other athletic facilities.

Designed by Walton & Associates of Springfield, the project calls for a 6,200-square-foot addition on the north side of the center that will house two multipurpose spaces, locker rooms and additional storage. Existing space will be made into four classrooms, three offices, a conference room and storage.

A second phase calls for a 3,900-square-foot addition on the southeast side that will house two classrooms and two offices. In addition, the college will install a new HVAC and geothermal system and solar panels in the new sections, which will make the entire center more energy-efficient.

For years, various versions of the project have topped the college's list of capital improvements on campus. But officials couldn't move forward with the work because of a lack of funding from the state.

At the ceremony, Jacobs and others credited state Sen. Mike Frerichs, D-Champaign, for his efforts in helping secure the funding.

"Without his support, we wouldn't be expanding," said Jacobs, who also thanked Gov. Pat Quinn, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and retired state Rep. Bill Black, who pushed for the money for many years.

Mike Cunningham, DACC's administrative services director, said he plans to bring a bid recommendation for the Phase I construction to college trustees on May 24. If they approve the contract, the work could begin in June or July. He added it will take about 18 months to complete, depending on the weather.