Is Tyler Junior College’s $XX Million Bond Election a Game Changer or a Total Disaster? Find Out Now!

The Facilities Planning Committee at **Tyler Junior College (TJC)** has unveiled an ambitious proposal aimed at enhancing the educational infrastructure and student services on campus. This proposal, developed with input from college representatives and community members, outlines three major projects that collectively represent an investment of **$151.7 million**. These initiatives are designed to strengthen **community partnerships**, improve **student learning environments**, and prepare the workforce while modernizing the college’s technological and physical infrastructure.

Workforce & Academic Building – $64 million*

The proposed **$64 million Workforce & Academic Building** aims to replace the aging **Pirtle Technology Center**, constructed in **1966**. Currently, nearly **25 workforce and STEM programs** operate out of this outdated facility, which lacks modern classrooms, simulation labs, and collaborative learning spaces. The new building will house TJC’s workforce training and academic programs tailored for high-demand industries such as engineering, business, criminal justice, surveying, and information technology. By incorporating advanced technology similar to what students will encounter in the workplace, this facility is poised to significantly enhance the educational experience.

Student Success Center – $54.8 million*

The Student Success Center, estimated at **$54.8 million**, is another critical element of the proposal. TJC currently offers **18 services** that assist students from enrollment to graduation, but these services are dispersed across **eight older buildings** on the **145-acre Central campus**. The consolidation of these services into a single center is intended to streamline processes, allowing students to focus more on their education and less on administrative hurdles.

Student Safety & IT Center – $32.9 million*

Lastly, the **$32.9 million Student Safety & IT Center** addresses pressing needs in both technology and campus security. The existing data and technology building suffers from structural integrity issues that hinder its ability to meet current and future demands. Additionally, the **TJC Police Department** operates from two former residential homes, which limits operational efficiency. By relocating these functions to a new integrated facility, the college aims to modernize its digital and physical security operations for more than **20,000 students** and **1,200 employees**, ultimately enhancing the overall safety on campus.

*Plus **$15.6 million** anticipated costs for engineering, infrastructure, equipment, furnishings, etc.

The proposed bond not only emphasizes TJC's commitment to educational excellence but also signals a broader focus on preparing students for a rapidly evolving job market. Community members and stakeholders are invited to explore more about the bond at **TJCBond.com**. As these projects unfold, they hold the potential to reshape the college experience for students in Tyler and beyond, ensuring that the institution remains a vital resource for workforce development and academic achievement.