LOS ANGELES—Bernards, a nationally ranked commercial builder with five offices throughout the Southwest, has been selected to serve as general contractor for the renovation and expansion of the University of Southern California's new Uytengsu Aquatic Center. The project is scheduled for completion in April 2014.

Designed by Berkley, California-based ELS Architecture and Urban Design, the $12.5 million project will add 18,000 square feet to the existing facilities, bringing the overall project area to 85,000 square feet. The USC aquatics center has hosted many national and international swimming, diving and water polo championships, including the 1984 Summer Olympic Games.

Formerly known as the McDonald Olympic Swim Stadium and Kennedy Aquatics Building, the new stadium features will include permanent seating for 1,500 spectators, shade canopies and lighting for nighttime competitive events. Additionally, the plan will provide the flexibility to accommodate 2,500 spectators for larger events, as well as make the facility more accessible to non-athlete students.