Colby Community College will host a groundbreaking ceremony at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 31, to celebrate the beginning of construction on the Colby Tennis Center. The public event is at the site of the old tennis courts northeast of the Cultural Arts Center.

The 21,328 square-foot building features two full-size collegiate tennis courts, two full-size pickleball courts, and a walking area. It will be open 24 hours a day and accessible to the community.

College President Dr. Seth Carter believes the building aligns with the mission of CCC.

"This facility will benefit northwest Kansas and the surrounding communities for decades to come," he said. "I am so humbled by the generosity and tenacity that went into creating this facility. I want to thank everyone who made it possible."

Grants and donations are funding the $1 million-plus project. Once the total amount was secured, the CCC Board of Trustees selected Stephens Construction of Colby.

All individuals contributing will be named on the Colby Tennis Center donor wall. Donations are tax-deductible and can be made to the Colby Community College Endowment Foundation.

The facility is expected to open in September.