Los Angeles Mission College (LAMC) broke ground Friday, April 3, on a new Plant Facilities Warehouse and Shop, a 27,820-square-foot building that will serve as the central hub for the college’s maintenance and operations.
The new facility will house administrative offices, trade shops, custodial space, and operational support areas, providing a modern, centralized home for campus operations.
“This Plant Facilities building symbolizes progress, responsibility and our vision for the future,” said Steven F. Veres, second vice president of the LA Community College District (LACCD) Board of Trustees. “What began with the district’s Clean Energy and Sustainability Resolution is now becoming reality, as we continue our commitment to making net zero – and beyond – the standard, not the exception.”
As the district’s first net-positive facility, the building is designed to generate more energy than it consumes. A system of 574 solar PV panels will produce up to 252,560 kW of renewable power – more than 115% of the facility’s average daily energy use – and will be supported by a battery energy storage system to enhance efficiency and resiliency.
Sustainable design features include drought-tolerant landscaping to reduce irrigation needs, a stormwater capture and infiltration system and cool roofing to mitigate heat island effects. The building will also maximize natural light and incorporate energy-efficient LED lighting with automated controls, a high-efficiency HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) system with independent controls and water-saving fixtures throughout.
“Student success does not begin and end in the classroom,” said LACCD Chancellor Alberto J. Román. “It is built through safe campuses, well-maintained facilities, welcoming environments and spaces that support dignity, belonging and opportunity.”
“At Los Angeles Mission College, we are honored to be stewards of this land as we fulfill our commitment to student success,” said LAMC President Armida Ornelas. “Our students know to expect accessible, high-quality learning opportunities in a culturally and intellectually supportive environment.”
The project received the 2024 Award of Merit for Design from the Community College Facility Coalition.