PCL breaks ground on $80M Santa Barbara City College athletics and physical education facility

California Construction News staff writer

PCL Construction celebrated the groundbreaking of the $80 million Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) physical education and athletics replacement building last week.

Designed by LPA Design Studios, the four-story, 77,187-square-foot building will replace aging facilities and serve as a new hub for physical education and athletics at SBCC. Once complete, the facility will include an NCAA gymnasium, multidisciplinary classrooms, dance and exercise rooms, a fitness center, and staff and faculty offices. The project also features dedicated athletics support spaces, including a training room, team locker rooms, equipment and uniform storage, and laundry facilities.

Designed for the coastal environment, the structure will be cast-in-place concrete to enhance durability and protect against marine conditions and tidal surges. A roof canopy will shade portions of the building while integrating a solar array that supports the college’s sustainable energy goals. The new building will serve physical education, kinesiology, athletics, and health education programs, in addition to all campus programs, with adaptable instructional spaces.

“Breaking ground here marks an important moment for Santa Barbara City College and PCL as we continue to expand our operations in the Central Coast.” said Thai Nguyen, district manager for PCL’s California Buildings operations. “Today is all about the students of SBCC, and we are looking forward to delivering for them and eventually seeing them enjoy this one-of-a-kind space for years to come.”

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together Santa Barbara City College leadership, project partners, local officials, and community members to celebrate the start of construction on a facility that will serve generations of students.

Demolition of the existing building began in June 2025, with construction completion anticipated in April 2028.