Soldotna company awarded contract for Challenger Center

KENAI (AP) -- The addition to the Challenger Learning Center of Alaska will be built by a Soldotna company.

G&S Construction was awarded the $2.9 million contract for student dormitories, classrooms, a workshop, a kitchen and a distance learning studio.

The addition is expected to be completed by March. It will add 9,714 square feet to the 12,072-square foot building.

Money for the project is funded through NASA funds secured by U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens, R-Alaska.

The Kenai facility is one of 43 such centers around the country. It uses simulated space missions and hands-on learning to teach science and help students develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.