A $1 million donation to support construction of a 14,900 square-foot building for outdoor programs Colorado Mountain College’s Timberline Campus was announced May 20.

The gift from Freeport-McMoRan Copper and Gold Foundation — announced at the building’s ground breaking ceremony — is to help cover the building’s $2.3 million price tag.

The Climax Molybdenum Leadership Center is to include two large meeting rooms, a gymnasium with full-size basketball and volleyball courts, a 25-foot climbing wall and workout facility for students.

The building will also provide space for storing boats, skis and other outdoor equipment.

“Here our students will enjoy an enhanced learning experience and our community can make use of meeting spaces for training and staff development,” said Alexandra Yajko, CEO of the CMC Foundation in a press release.

Richard Adkerson, president and CEO of Freeport-McMoRan Copper and Gold said the company strives to “create value for our communities and support efforts that stimulate positive development and sustainability.”

“This center will benefit not only the college and its students but the community at large by offering new learning and meeting space, classes and programs that will enhance the stewardship and resources of the area as well as support economic development,” Adkerson said in a press release.

CMC Timberline Campus CEO Mike Simon said the administration is excited to offer the amenities to the students.

Sam Skramstrad, the college’s facilities director said the outdoor program had been without a home for two years.

“The structure will also provide (a) large meeting space for the community,” he said.

The building’s increase in capacity should enable Lake County to offer larger events — such as corporate development and training, according to the press release.

Salida-based contractor Diesslin Structures Inc. is to work with local contractors to construct the building.