A $1.5 million state grant will go toward building a permanent Boys and Girls Club of Hawaii Windward Clubhouse.

Gov. Linda Lingle announced today she released the money to build the facility on the grounds of Kailua Intermediate School.

The funds will be used to renovate an existing boys locker room into two new locker rooms and showers — one for boys and one for girls.

The clubhouse also will include a media center, a social recreational facility and basketball courts.

Lingle said the Boys and Girls Club helps youths develop skills and self-confidence to become responsible, productive citizens.

The total cost of the project is estimated at $5 million. The Boys and Girls Club has raised the remaining $3.5 million through private donations.