By Joey Chenoweth
Coolidge Examiner
As the only college in Pinal County, Central Arizona College has the potential of being one of the largest institutions of higher learning in the state, and school officials took a big step toward reaching that goal when they broke ground for a new campus in San Tan Valley.
The ceremony, which included guests like Sheriff Paul Babeu and Congressman Frank Pratt, kicked off a 25-year construction plan that, if completed, would comprise 200 acres of land east of San Tan Valley, with the Superstition Mountains in plain view to the north. The first phase of this plan will be completed in time for students to register for classes in August. CAC will need more bond money before it can proceed with further plans.
“As we churn dirt for the first time, Central Arizona College is unearthing an exciting and unique opportunity to help build a community,” said CAC President Doris Helmich. “It is not just an opportunity; it is our responsibility. As I look around the area, I see the building blocks of a community that is setting up to be one of the largest cities in the state of Arizona.”
