JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The city has come up with a plan to keep a day care center near downtown open.

The city came under fire for its plan to close the Brewer Center Early Learning Center because of budget concerns.

Mayor John Peyton's office announced Friday that Florida Community College at Jacksonville and the Chappell Child Development Center have agreed to take over management and operation of the center.

"The partnership will be true to the initial intent of the center by establishing it as a laboratory school with a strong focus on a high-quality education and the use of research-based strategies, materials, and tools to improve the outcomes of all children, but particularly those considered at-risk," Peyton said.

Peyton had said that the city did not need to spend $900,000 in taxpayer money running a day care facility, but he didn't mind being a landlord so the center on Jacksonville's Eastside did not have to relocate.

The college will use the center as part of its new bachelor's degree offering in early childhood education.

"The college and Chappell currently work together in the operation of four highly successful on-campus childcare centers," said FCCJ President Steve Wallace. "Chappell is a leader in quality childcare services and we are proud to partner with Chappell."

The deal will require approval of City Council and the FCCJ's board of trustees.

Fall 2008 registration for current and new students will begin Aug. 4 at the facility. Class sizes will remain the same and the center will accept infants age 6 weeks to pre-kindergarten 4-year-olds and will include voluntary pre-kindergarten. Tuition will range from $131 to $161 per week, but a tuition-assistance program for qualifying parents will be available.