Work will begin Monday on the renovation of the Solon and Martha Dixon Center for the Performing Arts at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College.

Under the direction of Paul Catrett with Opp’s Catrett Construction Inc., general contractor for the project, the building’s front will take on a new look designed by the Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood architectural firm of Montgomery.

“The Dixon Center is an integral part of cultural activities in our community,” said Dr. Herb Riedel, LBWCC president. “These renovations will enhance the front of the building, expand the lobby area, and provide a light barrier at theater doors to prevent disruption of performances.

“Thanks to the generosity of the Martha and Solon Dixon Foundation, we are able to create an even more beautiful and functional facility,” he said.

Construction is expected to begin early next week, but should not interfere with any scheduled events, he said.

“Even though there will be a ‘hard-hat’ area in the front of the building, the public and students will have easy access at other entrances to the building,” he said.

The project is expected to be complete in four months.

“This is an important project for the Andalusia campus and we are excited to have local workers on site. The finished product will be something we can all point to with pride,” he said.