Community designs new college campus following extensive feedback in four meetings

The Canutillo Independent School District (CISD) Board Meeting on January 29, 2024, focused on significant developments regarding the design of a new college campus and community engagement efforts. The meeting highlighted the importance of local involvement in the design process and addressed community concerns, including a reported sewage smell at the ice facility.

During the meeting, board members expressed gratitude for the community's active participation in the design process, emphasizing that the project is being developed "for the community by the community." The collaborative effort includes input from various stakeholders, including staff, students, and parents, who have participated in multiple community meetings aimed at shaping the vision for the new campus.

The design process has involved four community meetings, with three being highly interactive. Participants engaged in hands-on activities to express their preferences for the campus layout, which included desires for separate buildings, a secure entrance, a central courtyard, and connections to the adjacent El Paso Community College. Feedback from these sessions has been instrumental in guiding the design team, leading to a preference for a modern architectural approach.

The board also discussed the importance of staying within budget while collaborating closely with the construction manager. The design team presented various site options, incorporating community feedback to refine the plans. The latest meeting featured a virtual reality simulation, allowing attendees to visualize the proposed campus layout and provide further input.

As the project progresses, the board remains committed to addressing community concerns and ensuring that the design reflects the collective vision of the Canutillo community. The next steps will involve continued engagement with stakeholders to finalize the design and address any outstanding comments from the community.