Construction of the new Downtown Midland Center is on track for occupancy in early January 2021.

Nicholas Bovid, director of Facilities, said construction was put on hold for about 33 days in March and April due to the pandemic. 

“Even with the Stay Home, Stay Safe executive orders that lasted for more than four weeks, I’m glad to say that we are still on track to finish the building on time,” said Bovid. 

In August and September, several large projects were finished, including window and elevator installations, and all fire protection materials were added to the facility. Bovid said drywall, electrical and plumbing are ongoing projects. 

The facility, located at 419 East Ellsworth St., will include science and computer labs, classrooms, special-use training rooms, multi-purpose rooms and student services. It will bring new opportunities for innovation, and programs will focus on STEM to meet the needs of area employers.   

Major funding for the building, which was designed by TowerPinkster, was provided by Dow and the Dow Corning Foundation.

Additional funders include the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation, Harry A. and Margaret D. Towsley Foundation and Charles J. Strosacker Foundation.

The building’s site was donated by Chemical Bank and Dow.