Western Michigan University approves borrowing for 2 building projects

The Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo will borrow $28 million to pay part of the cost of building an alumni center and a dining hall.

The university's board of trustees agreed to issue $28 million in bonds for the construction projects, mlive.com reports.

The university is scheduled to begin construction later this spring of the $36 million Valley Dining Center. The 67,000-square-foot facility is scheduled to open in fall 2016. The design calls for a restaurant-style environment; a variety of seating options and flexible spaces; a food pantry with selections for students with food allergies and special nutritional needs; a convenience store and cafe offering snacks, light meals and beverages; and special dining areas that can convert to private rooms.

Construction of the alumni center is about half complete; an opening is scheduled for October.