Southwestern College in Chula Vista broke ground Wednesday on the college's largest construction project since its opening in 1961.
Funded by Proposition R, the $55-million project will include new classroom space and a state-of-the-art bookstore.
Once complete, the 110,000 square foot corner lot development will also include a food court and culinary arts program for Southwestern students, a wellness center, new office space and a college police station.
College officials said the project is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs.
The project includes sustainable features such as collecting rain for irrigation, natural ventilation and other green building techniques.
College officials said they plan to seek LEED certification for the project.