CRYSTAL LAKE – McHenry County College has proposed spending $278.5 million over the next decade to expand its Crystal Lake campus, but lacking capital reserve funds to pay for it, some are urging college leaders to consider other options.

As MCC explores how to fund its brick-and-mortar plan, national experts are preparing for an increasingly digital future for community colleges as student demand for online courses and other distance education outpaces interest in traditional classrooms.

The college’s facilities master plan calls for building a student life center, science and health professions center and fine arts center in the next five to 10 years. In addition to classrooms and laboratories, the concept plans show music and art studios, a tiered student senate room, a commons area and a redesigned library and media center.