CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS - Pictured is Michael Blakely of SJB Services, Inc., operating an exploratory drill on the future site of SUNY Canton's Athletic and Convocation Center.

One of the first steps in laying a solid foundation for SUNY Canton’s Athletic and Convocation Center is underway.

Workers from SJB Services, Inc., a geotechnical and environmental testing and consulting company, were drilling holes to find the bedrock in the fields adjoining the college’s new lighted all-weather synthetic turf field.

Site survey, soil investigations and the preliminary design work have all begun. Actual construction of the $36.7 million complex is set to begin in the spring. The first phase of the project is targeted for completion during the Fall 2009 Semester.