Anyone passing by Blackstone and Weldon avenues the past year couldn’t help but notice the modern gleaming new building rising from the ground.

It’s Fresno City College’s new Science Building, which officially celebrated its ribbon-cutting on Friday.

How big is it? 87,000 square feet and boasting labs 30% to 40% bigger than the college’s old science building.

How much did it cost? $87 million, with $79 million from State Center Community College District’s 2016 Measure C construction bond. An additional $5 million was from Fresno Unified, whose Design Science Middle College High School is on the campus, and $3 million from Fresno CC’s budget.

Harris Construction of Fresno was the builder.

4,000 Students Will Learn in the New Building

Fresno City College chemistry instructor Dan Kwasniewski estimates that 4,000 students will take part in labs and instruction at the new building. That high number reflects the fact that the nursing and dental hygiene programs use the building in addition to biology, chemistry, engineering, and physics students.

“That’s 4,000 students learning the current modern techniques they need to succeed,” says Kwasniewski.

In addition, the Science Building serves as the “front door” to the campus — offering all who walk, bike, bus, or drive along Blackstone a glimpse of the possibilities awaiting those who enroll.

“Harris Construction is proud to have partnered with the State Center Community College District  on this exciting new project, which includes not only the new sleek state-of-the-art Science Building, but also the new Child Development Center, right next door,” said Michael R. Spencer, the company president.

“Together, these projects are playing a key role in reshaping the face of Fresno City College and revitalizing Blackstone Avenue. Our work supports the growth of educational opportunities and community engagement, helping to create a vibrant future for students and our Central Valley.”

An October 2024 view of Fresno City College’s new Science Building with evening lights on. (Fresno City College)