Located in the heart of downtown Indio, the original campus opened in 2014 and quickly became a vital academic hub for the Coachella Valley. Fueled by a surge in enrollment and a growing demand for local higher education, the College’s leadership recognized the urgent need to evolve this satellite location into a full-service campus. The result is a transformative expansion that more than doubles the site’s footprint and significantly amplifies its impact on the community it serves.

The 66,800 SF new building is designed to empower students with the tools, resources, and environments they need to thrive. Featuring modern classrooms, lecture halls, science labs, and computer facilities, the space also houses a new student success center, public safety offices, and health and wellness services—all tailored to meet the diverse needs of the student body.

Beyond programmatic expansion, the design is rooted in community connection and resilience. By integrating outdoor spaces and improving pedestrian connectivity, the campus reinforces its presence as a civic anchor in downtown Indio. The project also supports long-term sustainability goals, with a predicted Energy Use Intensity (EUI) that aligns with the district’s environmental commitments.

This expansion is more than just a building—it’s a gateway. For first-generation college students, for working parents balancing jobs and education, and for a region that’s long been underserved, this project embodies what happens when architecture is driven by purpose. It’s a tangible investment in the future of the Coachella Valley and a shining example of how thoughtful design can unlock human potential.