Cuesta College held a groundbreaking ceremony on February 5 for the North County Campus Instructional Building, a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance educational opportunities for students in San Luis Obispo County. The newest and final building funded by Measure L, this project represents the college’s commitment to providing cutting-edge learning environments that meet the evolving needs of students and the workforce.
“I am pleased with the college’s diligence and thoughtfulness in implementing each issuance of the bond,” said Dr. Jill Stearns, Superintendent / President of Cuesta College. “It ensures that our students benefit from outstanding learning spaces and provides enhanced functionality for our employees in amazing facilities.”
The new North County Campus Instructional Building will serve as a dynamic hub for trades and career education programs, offering flexible classroom and lab spaces tailored to support hands-on learning. Designed with adaptability in mind, the facility will include:
- an agriculture lab to enhance Cuesta College’s expanding agriculture program
- a covered workspace for trades programs, including agriculture, auto, and engine classes, offering ample room for large vehicles, equipment, and enhanced ventilation
- a movement classroom and locker rooms for Kinesiology programs, including a large, open space for physical education activities
- a traditional classroom designed for lecture-based instruction
“Today’s groundbreaking symbolizes the Board’s commitment to providing educational facilities to prepare our students to succeed in the workforce and the world,” said Danna Stroud, Vice President of the San Luis Obispo County Community College District Board of Trustees. “On behalf of my fellow trustees, we are grateful for our community’s support in investing in Cuesta’s future.”
Since the North County Campus opened in 1998 with modular buildings, Cuesta College has made significant strides in developing permanent, high-quality learning spaces. The last building to be completed on the North County Campus with Measure L funds was the R & B Schultz Early Childhood Center, which opened in 2021. The addition of the Pete Cagliero Plant Science Facility, complete with greenhouses, vines, and fruit trees, has already transformed agricultural education at Cuesta. The new Instructional Building will take these advancements even further by providing a full-service lab and expanded facilities for hands-on training.
“With each new permanent structure, our students gain a greater sense of belonging and permanency,” said Mia Ruiz, Dean of Student Success & Support Programs overseeing the North County Campus. “All students, whether degree-seeking or life-long learners, will be able to enjoy these beautiful and functional spaces.”
The $15 million construction contract was awarded in October 2024 to Newton Construction and Management Inc. of San Luis Obispo. Initial construction activities, including fencing and groundwork, are already underway, with project completion anticipated in Spring 2026. The facility will also incorporate sustainable features such as rooftop solar panels and a battery backup system to improve energy efficiency.
Measure L is the $275M general obligation bond approved by San Luis Obispo County voters in November 2014, allowing for new construction projects, necessary repairs, and upgrades at Cuesta College. For further updates and detailed information about Measure L, please visit cuestacollegebond.info. A video of the groundbreaking ceremony is available at bit.ly/cuestanorthinstructionalbuilding.
