Collin College’s Plano campus, built in 1988, isn’t old by American higher education standards. But with a growing student population, the college needs an update. And that it will get: Skanska AB, a Swedish construction firm, announced that it secured a contract with Collin College for renovations to its Plano campus for $68 million.
What To Expect
The project involves renovating 19,500 square meters of existing buildings at the Spring Creek Parkway campus. Skanska's work will include installing a new roof, converting office and classroom spaces into laboratory areas, upgrading mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, expanding the kitchen and dining spaces, enlarging the theater and adding a new police office.
Additionally, the project will include a general refresh and reconfiguration of administrative areas, common spaces and classrooms.
All of this will make the Plano campus better for students and staff.
Construction is scheduled to commence in January 2025, with completion anticipated by August 2026.
Why This Matters
The Plano Campus provides programs and activities to its diverse student population. It features vibrant visual and performing arts and athletics programs and is the district's only Collin College campus with official student housing, serving over 60,000 students each year.
As the population of Collin County continues to grow, so does the amount of students searching for a college degree. The college has seen a 12% surge in enrollment since 2020, reflecting its growing appeal and expanding academic offerings.
“The renovations to the Collin College Plano campus are important to providing a welcoming and supportive environment where students can thrive and innovate,” Dr. Bill King, executive vice president of Collin College, told Local Profile. “These improvements will enhance our current students’ experiences and lay a strong foundation for future generations, ensuring that our college remains a place for academic excellence and opportunity.”
Collin College Continues To Expand
Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Commerce awarded a $2 million grant to the Collin County Community College District in Plano to advance healthcare workforce training. The new facility will equip students for healthcare careers in the local community, which is projected to create 4,000 jobs.
Collin College also launched the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at Collin College in partnership with Texas A&M University's College of Engineering. This program offers students a unique opportunity to receive a high-quality education while enjoying substantial cost savings by being concurrently enrolled at both institutions.
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