The state sold $685 million in bonds to fund new construction projects and repair and renovate existing facilities, Gov. Nathan Deal said Thursday.

He said the state’s AAA bond ratings helped Georgia sell the bonds at low rates.

The Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission, which is responsible for issuing the state’s bonds, approved the move at a Thursday meeting.

Deal said the bond sale allows the state “to meet the needs of our citizens for increased educational and economic development opportunities throughout Georgia.”