HILO, Hawai'i — Gov. Linda Lingle has released nearly $18.4 million for major improvements to the University of Hawai'i's Hilo campus that will include a new Student Life Center with an Olympic-size swimming pool, a fitness center and basketball courts.

During a visit to UH-Hilo Wednesday, Lingle also announced the release of $2 million to plan a Hawaiian Language Building for the campus.

Construction of the Student Life Center should begin early next year, and cost nearly $21 million. Planning and design of the Hawaiian Language Building is expected to be completed by summer of 2007. It is expected to cost nearly $22 million.

The College of Hawaiian Language is spread among several buildings, and consolidating the college will provide state-of-the-art facilities, Lingle said.