Plans progress for Battle Creek Math and Science Center

With $14 million in funds secured for the Battle Creek Math and Science Center relocation to downtown Battle Creek the attention now turns to implementing the move and determining how construction will proceed.

Meetings with architects, setting up competitive bid proceses for constructions companies are some steps that now are under way, says Karl Dehn, President and CEO of Battle Creek Unlimited. BCU is the economic development organization that works with the City of Battle Creek to bring new business to the area and help existing businesses grow.

Construction is expected to begin by the fall and be completed in time for the 2012-2013 school year. The center serves 350 students from 16 school districts. Enrollment is expected to increase in the new location in the former Cereal City building.

Not only is the project important for the downtown -- local officials have identified it as one of the four pillars of the downtown revitalization -- but it also has broader implications for the community, Dehn says.

"This really is a part of a bigger education strategy for the community," he says.

Battle Creek is using its commitment to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) to demonstrate to would-be employers that the community has the talent pool companies are seeking.

As Battle Creek builds on the food science industry that already is developing there, the emphasis on STEM is vital to growth, he says.

"This is very much an economic development instrument for the community," Dehn says.

Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: Karl Dehn, Battle Creek Unlimited