McAlester (Okla.) school district is planning a $34.9 million middle school and events center

The McAlester (Okla.) district is preparing to start construction on a new middle school and event center.

The McAlester News-Capital reports that the McAlester school board has approved two resolutions that will give the district quicker access to the bond funds needed to move forward on construction of the facility.

The construction will add classrooms, labs and an event center that doubles as a storm shelter for nearly 800 students.

According to the school's website, the event center will seat about 1,824 people, host community-wide events, and hold the McAlester High School graduation. Other features of the center: a basketball court, band/choir room, a wrestling gym, six locker rooms and six safe rooms.

An amphitheater will seat about 265 people, and will have an outdoor learning space and a performing arts area.  

The district is has not yet chosen construction company for the project.