LBCC breaks ground for its future student hub, supportive services building

Long Beach City College students will soon have a new place to gather, study and access their supportive services.

The college has officially broken ground on its new Building E College Center – a new three-story, 62,823-square-foot facility that will serve as a vibrant hub for student engagement, academic support, and community connection on the Liberal Arts Campus.

LBCC administrators, staff, students, and community members gathered at the site of the future building on Wednesday, Nov. 19, for a groundbreaking ceremony.

“This new student center is a reflection of the trust we gave in investing in state-of-the-art technology, environmental sustainability, and a space for our students to continue their studies,” said LBCC Board President Uduak-Joe Nutk. “It’s going to be a great new space for our students and our community.”

The new college center will bring together vital services, including Student Life, Basic Needs, the Viking Vault, the Family Center, International Center, Student Affairs, First Year Experience, and the Social Justice Intercultural Center, according to a press release.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the project targets LEED Gold Certification and features a cafeteria, amphitheater, outdoor seating, flexible event spaces, and a modern design that honors the historical character of the campus, officials said.

“This new building represents an ongoing commitment to student success, belonging and sustainability,” said Superintendent-President Mike Muñoz. “It was designed intentionally to support the whole student.

“When Building E opens, it will be much more than a facility,” Muñoz added. “It will be a symbol of what we stand for as a college – a space that inspires connection, creativity and community. A welcoming home where students can study, gather and grow together.”

The project is anticipated to cost approximately $102 million, and is funded by LBCC’s Measure LB – a $850 million bond issue that over 63% of voters approved in 2016 that helps fund new construction, renovation and repairs at the college.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, LBCC alumn and businessman Kevin Nagle served as a guest speaker. He shared with the crowd his experience as a student and ASB president at LBCC in 1974.

“I never thought I’d be standing here 51 years later,” Nagle said. “The student body should enjoy this as much as the previous student body did. This is a great time to be a Long Beach City College Viking.”

Construction for the new facility began in July and is anticipated to open in Fall 2027, officials said.