Norco College celebrated a milestone on Thursday, August 21, 2025, with the groundbreaking
of the Center for Human Performance and Kinesiology (CHPK), a Measure CC-funded project
designed to advance student learning, wellness, and community engagement. The ceremony
brought together government representatives, community partners, college leaders,
faculty, classified professionals, and students to mark the start of construction
and honor the vision behind the project.
The 56,000-square-foot, two-story facility is part of Norco College’s Educational
Master Plan, which guides strategic growth, program expansion, and the creation of
spaces that foster equity, innovation, and community connections. DLR Group, serving
as architect and design partner, brought a movement-inspired design that emphasizes
wellness, connectivity, and participation. The building’s placement will link the
college’s upper and lower campuses while welcoming the community to engage in athletic,
wellness, and academic activities.
Chancellor Wolde-Ab Isaac highlighted Measure CC as the funding source that made the
project possible, enabling the creation of modern, sustainable, and accessible spaces
that meet the needs of students and the broader region.
The facility will include a 13,600-square-foot gymnasium, weight room, locker rooms,
wellness and exercise studios, athletic offices, and equipment storage. The design
incorporates energy-efficient features, including photovoltaic readiness and high-performance
glazing, with the goal of LEED certification.
Suzie Witmer, associate professor of health science and kinesiology and co-chair for
the School of Natural Sciences, Health and Kinesiology, said CHPK will provide labs
with advanced technology, classrooms for applied learning, and collaborative research
spaces, enabling students and faculty to translate knowledge into action.
The ceremony concluded with the symbolic turning of the soil, representing teamwork,
vision, and the college’s commitment to education, health, and community engagement.
The Measure CC-funded Center for Human Performance and Kinesiology is expected to
be completed in August 2027.
Drone footage overview of groundbreaking of the Center for Human Performance and Kinesiology on Thursday, August 21, 2025
Architectural model of the future Center for Human Performance and Kinesiology