At Tuesday’s City Council meeting, College of the Desert Superintendent/President Val Garcia Martinez and Dr. Scott Adkins, Director of Education Centers for the West Valley, delivered a highly anticipated update on the new Palm Springs Campus affirming progress on construction and programming and reinforcing the College’s deepening partnership with the City of Palm Springs.
COD Superintendent/President Val Garcia Martinez
The update confirmed that the $405 million campus, currently under construction near Baristo Road, is on track. Underground infrastructure is expected to be completed by mid-September, and the first buildings are scheduled to “go vertical” later this year.
“This is more than a college project,” said Garcia Martinez during the presentation. “This is a long-term investment in students, families, and the future of Palm Springs as a regional center for workforce innovation, creativity, and opportunity.”
The presentation showcased the Palm Springs Campus as a future hub for education and economic development, aligning directly with city priorities. Signature programs at the site will include Hospitality & Tourism, Culinary Arts, Digital Media and Film, an AI Hub, Allied Health, and Architecture & Sustainable Design. A new University Center is also in development, with Cal Poly Pomona set to offer a bachelor’s degree in Architecture on-site.
Dr. Adkins highlighted new offerings launching even before the campus opens, including courses in video game development and foundational AI, as well as expanded dual enrollment and community-based learning opportunities through a temporary campus on Baristo Drive and partnerships with local area high schools. The College’s PaCE (Partnership and Community Education) division will also expand rapidly, with workforce training in hospitality, healthcare certifications, and technology.
City of Palm Springs Mayor Ron DeHarte
Palm Springs Mayor Ron deHarte praised the College’s commitment and vision. “We are very excited to become a college town in 2027,” he said, reflecting the community’s long-standing support for the project.
In addition to academic and workforce training, the campus will offer comprehensive general education pathways for students seeking transfer to four-year universities. Discussions are underway to explore launching the first degree in Casino Management at a community college in the U.S.
The presentation concluded with a look ahead to a “Going Vertical” ceremony later this year – a symbolic milestone marking the transition from underground work to visible construction. “It’s a powerful reminder,” said Garcia Martinez, “that the promise made to this community is being delivered.”
City Councilmember Jeffrey Bernstein, who has been promoting the economic development opportunity for the city to embrace and grow the digital technology sector, noted, “I’m excited to see you have added AI and tech into the mix.” He emphasized the importance of forward-looking programs that equip students for the region’s evolving job market.
Community members are encouraged to follow construction updates online through the College’s website and the City of Palm Springs’ Engage portal.
