WORCESTER, MA — A community college in Worcester marked a major step forward in the construction of a new 57,000-square-foot facility.
Quinsigamond Community College held a topping-off ceremony on Monday to celebrate the completion of the QCC Center's structural frame. State and local leaders, project partners and members of the community gathered for the raising of the final beam, the school announced.
The $37.4 million renovation and expansion project will transform a 1960s-era athletic facility into a 57,000-square-foot hub for learning, workforce development and student life. The QCC Center is expected to open in fall 2027.
“Through careful planning, advocacy, fundraising, design and construction, the vision is now becoming a reality,” QCC President Dr. Luis Pedraja said. “Most importantly, this will create opportunities for students to develop the skills they need to succeed in today’s workforce and strengthen the connection between education, industry and our community.”
The new facility will include advanced manufacturing and robotics laboratories, hospitality training spaces, flexible classrooms and renovated athletic facilities. The project will also include infrastructure upgrades and accessibility improvements.
The ceremony included a beam signing and remarks from Pedraja; state Sen. Robyn Kennedy; state Rep. James O’Day; Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty; Assistant Secretary Robert LePage of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Education; Deputy Commissioner Dr. Richard Riccardi of the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education; Commissioner Adam Baacke of the Massachusetts Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance; and Craig Skurka, operations manager for Gilbane Building Company.
“The raising of the beam is a moment for us to give gratitude and thank those who have stepped up to make this a reality,” Sen. Kennedy said. “As you join into the growing skyline of Worcester, we continue to grow with you.”
The majority of the renovation is funded by DCAMM. College officials said the project reflects the type of campus investment envisioned through the state’s BRIGHT Act, an initiative aimed at modernizing public higher education facilities.
The building is designed to achieve LEED Gold certification, with goals including improved energy performance, better indoor air quality and long-term sustainability.
“When we look at this structure, we aren’t just looking at steel beams and concrete; we’re looking at the literal framework of Worcester’s economic future,” Mayor Petty said. “True progress means lifting everyone up.”
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