Work has begun on a major addition to United Township High School in East Moline. Monday afternoon, ground was broken for the 9.6 million dollar project to build a new library, student commons area, and a secure front entrance.
Superintendent Jay Morrow says all three will be important additions to the school.
"Certainly the secure front entrance and safety features - we're all well aware of what's going on nationwide - and we hope to address some of those safety concerns.
The student commons area will allow our students to have a central location to gather. Right now we are kind of limited in space where our students can gather and study, socialize, and what-have-you."
The addition should be completed one year from now, with funding made possible by the local option sales tax for schools in both Rock Island and Henry counties.
