The new facility will include classrooms, offices and laboratories for various science-related programs.

Current facilities were built in the 1950s and 1960s, and are too small to accommodate the growing enrollment in the physical sciences, astronomy, chemistry, math, computer sciences, and biology programs, according to the Lingle announcement. The existing facilities also lack proper utilities and space for modern technology programs.

The new building is the first phase of a new science and technology complex that will provide classrooms and research facilities.

"This science and technology complex will promote innovation, new technologies and products that will have the potential of being the basis for new businesses and industries in the Hilo area, across the state of Hawai'i and ultimately around the world," Lingle said. "Cutting-edge instruction and facilities are crucial to helping our students compete with their peers in other countries."

UH-Hilo Chancellor Rose Tseng said the new classroom space and state-of-the-art labs will help keep the university's education in science and technology "on the leading edge in a rapidly changing world."