The Knoxville School Board has approved to move on to the next phase of an expansion and remodeling project at West Elementary.

The decision was made during special work session Wednesday by a four to one vote. School superintendent Cassi Murra says the project will turn West into a 21st-century learning facility. The project cost is estimated to be between $6.5 and $7.1 million dollars.

Once the project is completed, 2nd grade classes will move from Northstar Elementary to West.

Construction is expected to begin late September or early October with the hopes of being completed by the start of the 2016-17 school year.