(AP) — Work to improve Missouri State University’s athletic and recreation facilities will begin soon.

The executive committee of the university’s Board of Governors on Wednesday approved a $21.8 million contract with DeWitt and Associates of Springfield to do the work. Demolition is expected to begin Dec. 16.

The project includes demolishing east bleachers at the university’s football stadium. They will be replaced with a 4,000-seat structure that will include restrooms, concession stands, ticket windows, a raised patio, a visitors’ locker room and a game day meeting room for the football team.

The main revenue source for the project is about $1.6 million from a new $50 per semester student fee. Students overwhelmingly approved the fee on Oct. 18.