The Greenwood Laboratory School will begin construction on a $6.4 million expansion on the Missouri State University campus in Springfield.

There will be an official grounding breaking ceremony Tuesday at 3 p.m.

It will be held at 1024 E. Harrison on the south side off Bear Boulevard.

(Information provided by Missouri State University in Springfield)

SPRINGFIELD — Greenwood Laboratory School will begin construction this week.

This final phase for Greenwood’s expansion project will consist of 21,000 square feet of a multi-purpose center, which will house a new gymnasium with performance stage to seat approximately 700 people.

The project also involves a new entrance to the school, with lobby on the south side and weight room. The first phase was the addition of new locker rooms, which was completed in 2018.

“The project will impact the entire student population and improve facilities for a wide range of academic and athletic events,” said Jeni Hopkins, Greenwood High School Counselor and Design Committee member.

The project’s anticipated cost is $6.4 million; $3.2 million is coming from the university’s one­time reserves. The remainder is being funded through private donations, which includes a major gift by Bobby Allison, a Springfield-based philanthropist.

Missouri State University’s Board of Governors approved DeWitt & Associates as general contractors on May 17.

The expansion project is designed by Butler, Rosenbury & Partners and completion date is set for August 2020.