BUCHANAN — The result of a $2.4 million construction project at Ottawa Elementary School in Buchanan was on display during an open house there Tuesday evening.

The project, which was paid for by a bond proposal passed by voters, allowed for the addition of a new kindergarten wing and secure entryway to the pre through first-grade building.

The school also used sinking fund money to install a new parking lot, fix drainage issues on the property and install a new public address system.

“We just want to thank the community for providing the funds for the project,” said Supt. Andrea van der Laan, who also thanked the school board and project managers for their work in making it a reality.

The kindergarten wing features six new classrooms, each outfitted with coatracks, sinks and bathrooms so children do not have to walk the hallway when they need to use the restroom.

“It’s age appropriate and safer for the kids… everything is contained within one room and they stay with that teacher pretty much all day,” van der Laan said.

There is also a large, open collaborative space where teachers can conduct group projects and other activities.

“It’s a place where we can put the kids that is not they gym,” said Karin Falkenstein, Ottawa principal. “It is really quiet and kids think it is like a big living room — it’s pretty cool.”

In addition to the kindergarten wing, the building also received a new safe and secure entrance that requires visitors to enter the office before gaining access to the school area.

“It is just very safe and easily managed,” Falkenstein said.

Van der Laan said $50,000 has been set aside to install new playground equipment.

Also, van der Laan said in the coming months the school would receive a new sign and new maroon and white paint job inside and out to stay with the Buchanan Bucks theme.