Machinery and workers will pull onto the campus of Selma High School next week to begin preparation for construction of the new high school off Broad Street.

Superintendent Don Jefferson said Gov. Bob Riley had signed the final papers last week, providing the financing for the project — $20 million in stimulus money available through the Qualified School Construction Bond.

The school system will have to pay for the remainder of the $27 million project.

Jefferson and members of the Selma City School Board will join for a ground-breaking ceremony Saturday, Dec. 18, at noon in front of the high school.

“We are very excited about this event,” Jefferson said. “The children deserve this new school.”

Plans have been drawn for several months. Construction was scheduled to begin earlier this fall with completion of the new high school by spring 2012.

The city has waived $50,000 in fees for construction and building permits to help with the project.

Once completed, the school will have a new main wing. Other areas will see extensive renovations.