Los Medanos College is almost done with the design-planning phase of the Student Union Building that is expected to start being built in fall 2017.
“We are almost done with the schematic design phase, but are not able to provide a visual that can be shared yet,” said LMC Vice President Kevin Horan.
The design phase will be completed in six to eight weeks; with the result being an actual design of the building.
“We are currently working with architects on the initial design phase of the building, which will hopefully be completed this fall,” said Belman. “However, there are many stages in the process of bringing a new building to fruition, but it is currently anticipated that it will be completed in late 2019.”
The Student Union is “part of the LMC facilities master plan and has been in the works since 2007,” said Horan.
The design of the building with official renderings will be unveiled in the spring.

Currently, the building will have two floors. The Bookstore, Student Life, and the Cafeteria will be on the first floor. The Conference Center, also on the first floor, will let the college host larger events.
“Other than the Recital Hall, we currently don’t have a space to gather for large scale events,” said Student Life Coordinator Demetria Lawrence.
On the second floor, there will be different learning communities like Umoja, Honors and Transfer Academy.
“I like it because Honors will now be in one building instead of being on the first floor of the College Complex.” said LMC Associated Students President Darren Meeks.
Some learning communities currently do not have a space of their own.
“Transfer Academy will have their designated area instead of just finding different rooms,” said Meeks.
Student Unions serve as the social part of campuses where students can hangout. It will include student lounge spaces and spaces for activities.
The Bookstore will also have the opportunity to redesign their area.
“We will be able to expand the convenience store area,” said Bookstore manager Robert Estrada.
Construction of the Student Union building is expected to begin in fall 2017 in front of the math building in the open grass field. It is a combined project with the new PE Complex. Together, it will cost about $60 million, but will change in the future.
“We will have a more specific cost at the conclusion of the construction bidding process in 18 months,” said Horan.
A small portion of the funding comes from the Student Union fee students are required to pay to register at LMC.
“The Student Union project originated in 2002 when the LMC student body voted to create a Student Union fee to help construct a New Student Union for the campus,” said Dean of Student Services Dave Belman.