College of Western Idaho (CWI) has marked the completion of the first phase of ongoing campus expansion as work on a new bridge — connecting the future Horticulture and Agricultural Science Building to Cherry Lane and the rest of the Nampa Campus — wraps up.
To commemorate the event, dignitaries and others involved with bringing this vision to light gathered to sign their names next to a floral mural on the surface of the bridge, painted by CWI graduate and Heavy-Duty Truck Instructor, Marcos Garcia, and CWI student, Caleb Chereji. Amongst signees were Chair Molly Lenty of the Board of Trustees and CWI President Gordon Jones, along with respected legislators, Mayor Debbie Kling of Nampa, and other invaluable community partners.
The festivities also marked the beginning of construction for the Health and Science Building, as well as the Horticulture and Agricultural Science Building — two structures that pave the way for the groundbreaking of a Student Learning Hub set to launch in the fall of 2025.
"CWI's expansion projects are more than just an addition of buildings — it's a bold step towards enhancing our educational offerings and our community's access to cutting-edge resources," said President Jones. "This bridge signing event symbolizes our journey forward together, bridging our past achievements with future possibilities."
These new facilities will host advanced classrooms and expansive community spaces meant to enhance the learning experience for students and provide a hub for community engagement and professional development.
Adding her voice in support was Nampa’s Mayor Debbie Kling who remarked, “I am so thankful for College of Western Idaho, which bridges the gap between our workforce and higher education. They serve a critical role in our community of which I am very grateful.”
CWI's Board of Trustees Chair, Molly Lenty, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing "the new buildings will not only enrich our campus but will also equip our students and faculty with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-evolving world."
With the bridge located in an active construction zone, attendance at the signing was limited for safety reasons.
Learn more about CWI expansion plans for both Boise and Nampa on our Campus Development page.
