(AP) — York College has announced plans to construct a $3.5 million performing arts center on its southeast Nebraska campus.

College officials tell the York News-Times (http://bit.ly/1jibk3T) that the school has already received $2.2 million in gifts and pledges to go toward the project.

Construction of the 12,000 sq. ft. facility is set to begin in the fall.

A 350-seat, 5,000 square-foot theater will be the centerpiece of the facility.

Officials say the performing arts center will be focused on the day-to-day needs of students involved in York College’s music and communication programs.

The project was kick-started late last year by a $2 million anonymous gift.