Pfeiffer University

MISENHEIMER — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved Pfeiffer University’s application for a $34.5 million rural development loan to finance a new health science center in Albemarle and other construction.

The center will house the graduate physician assistant program and the occupational therapy program.

Pfeiffer says the center will provide affordable health care in the area.

The project is part of a revitalization plan for downtown Albemarle.

Pfeiffer also plans to complete renovations to its Harris Science Building, allowing for expansion of the bachelor of science in nursing program. The reconfiguration of classroom space will accommodate an additional 10 nursing students.

Renovations will be made to Goode Hall, which was closed in 2010 because of an accumulation of deferred maintenance. Academic support services such as tutoring and career services will be moved to a single location there.

Renovations to classrooms and the art gallery in Goode Hall will provide additional academic and multiuse space. Plans to add elevators to Goode Hall and the administration building are also in place.

The USDA loan will allow Pfeiffer to consolidate and pay off institutional debt incurred in previous renovations. Pfeiffer President Colleen Perry Keith said it’s an exciting time for the university but approval of the loan is only the beginning for creating long-term growth.

“Much of our day-to-day business will remain the same,” Keith said. “We will, however, be able to move ahead with programs and facility improvements that help our overall position: better space for teaching and learning, additional revenue, and student and employee satisfaction.”

Projects are expected to begin as early as December in Albemarle and in the spring on the Misenheimer campus.