Kendall College of Art and Design (KCAD) is looking forward to newly renovated facilities as Ferris continues with plans for the Old Federal Building in downtown Grand Rapids.

The plans went to the next level after approval by the state House and Senate for $10.6 million in tax credits for the project, leaving around $20 million to be raised.

Constructed in 1911 and home to the Grand Rapids Art Museum in recent years, the Old Federal Building needs repairs including a new roof, foundation repairs and updates to the mechanical systems.

Upon completion of the renovations by the Christman Company, the building will be used for classrooms, administrative offices, studio and exhibition space for KCAD, which has grown by 49 percent in five years to amass a student population of 1,385.

The city of Grand Rapids and the Christman Company will hold the deed for the building for five years and Ferris will lease it until the five-year term has expired and full ownership is handed over to the university.

The building, located at 155 N. Davison Ave., will receive numerous updates including sustainable design changes, said Ferris State University President David Eisler.

Architectural plans have not yet been finalized, but efforts are still underway. Marc Sheehan, university spokesperson, believes work could begin as early as next summer.