Forsyth Technical Community College unveiled its multi-phase project designed to create additional space for students on its main campus located on Silas Creek Parkway.
Campus officials say this new initiative comes from a need to increase collaboration while providing up-to-date resources for learners. Forsyth Tech President Dr. Janet Spriggs says the goal is to create an environment where students feel part of the community, which will then lead to retaining talent in the community.
“We want our students coming to a two-year community college to have every bit the same experience that they would have on a university setting,” said Dr. Spriggs. “It’s important for us to have high-quality spaces for them to learn and work in and the equipment that is relevant to today.”
The community college saw its highest enrollment in a decade with a graduation class size of 2,045 students.The campus expansion will accommodate more students.
The $29 million investment comes from the last bond referendum the campus received. It will cover all three phases of the project outlined.
Phase I: Demolition
The Piedmont and Salem buildings, Winston and Parkway buildings, Carolina Annex, and the Boiler building will be demolished. These selected spaces have mostly been used as storage due to old age. They will be replaced with a courtyard and the Learning Commons.
Phase II: Paving of the courtyard
The green space will feature tiered seating, an outdoor event space, and walking paths for increased accessibility.
Phase III: Construction of the Learning Commons
The building will have a traditional library, a multimedia space, and a family area for older students to study while their children take advantage of the learning space, as well.
The final phase is expected to be complete in 2026.
