HONOLULU – Gov. Linda Lingle has released a $250,000 grant-in-aid to the Maui Arts and Cultural Center (MACC) for site preparation, underground utilities and building foundations necessary for the renovation and expansion of the center.

A non-profit community arts organization incorporated in 1984, the MACC offers arts and cultural activities for the people of Maui, including art education programs, professional development workshops for teachers, events and performances, and school field trips in collaboration with the Maui schools, according to a news release from the governor's office. Since the construction of the existing center in Kahului in 1994, the MACC has served more than two million residents and visitors.

"The activities offered by the Maui Arts and Cultural Center enrich the community and promote a stronger understanding of our islands and the world," Lingle said in the news release. "With their upcoming expansion, they will be able to serve the public with an even larger and more diverse range of programs."

This is the third expansion the center has embarked on over the past several years. Phase one and two were completed in 2003 and 2006, respectively. This third phase will include a pavilion and amphitheater stage, upgraded food and beverage service facilities, storage area, maintenance building landscaping, gallery improvements and additional parking.

Construction is currently scheduled to be completed in February 2010 at a total cost of $12.8 million.