When will the project be finished?
We do not have a set timeline for project completion at this time. This is a large-scale, multi-year, and multi-phase endeavor that will advance as key partnerships are formed and funding is secured. Our focus is on building a campus with long-term local and regional impact, and we’re committed to thoughtful progress every step of the way.
Why does MCC need a fourth physical campus when so many classes are offered online?
While online learning continues to grow at MCC and across higher education, many of the careers driving our regional economy still require hands-on training, in-person labs, and real-world simulations. Our industry partners consistently emphasize the need for graduates with both technical skills and practical experience.
This new campus will prioritize programs that benefit most from face-to-face instruction—while also supporting hybrid and online formats to give students greater flexibility.
What is driving such a big investment to MCC in this Sarpy County?
While 144 acres may seem expansive, MCC training facilities are expected to occupy less than 50% of the usable land. The remainder is intended for complementary private and public development that supports our campus and community goals.
The property was identified as a potential growth opportunity for the College during the 2014 Comprehensive Master Plan process. Sarpy County is the fastest-growing county in Nebraska, with rapid population growth, major investments in regional industries and infrastructure, and a clear demand for skilled talent. As the only community college serving this area, MCC has a responsibility to expand access where the need is apparent.
Is MCC considering student housing? What about at other campuses?
MCC is exploring affordable housing solutions that support the diverse needs of our students and their families. Housing is a growing barrier to student success, and we see this as an opportunity to remove that obstacle while creating a stronger sense of belonging and community.
While no final decisions have been made, we will evaluate options that could be piloted at the new Sarpy County Campus and eventually adapted to other parts of our service area. Any student housing initiative would likely be developed in partnership with a private developer and management firm, ensuring quality and sustainability without diverting core educational resources.
How many jobs will the new campus create in Sarpy County?
In addition to creating new faculty and staff positions at the College, we anticipate long-term job growth through workforce development, industry partnerships, and the private development that will accompany the campus.
Will there be public transportation options available to MCC students at the Sarpy County Campus when it opens?
Currently, Metro Transit does not serve the future Sarpy County Campus site. However, we are actively engaged in conversations with Metro and Sarpy County municipalities to explore how public transportation options can be expanded to support our students.
We’re committed to working with local partners to ensure students have safe, affordable, and reliable transportation options as the campus develops and the surrounding area continues to grow.
Why is MCC looking to incorporate commercial development into the vision for the new campus? How will MCC balance or separate academic priorities from commercial development on campus grounds?
MCC’s vision for the Sarpy County Campus includes thoughtful commercial development to enhance student experience, create a lively campus environment, and support long-term sustainability. By integrating amenities like housing, dining, retail, and essential services, the campus can become a true destination for students and the broader community.
Importantly, any commercial development will be carefully planned to complement our academic mission. Priority will be given to partners who can enrich student learning through internships, practicum opportunities, or real-world training experiences.
This approach will allow MCC to maximize the value of the property while creating new opportunities for public-private partnerships that support student success and community growth
Will the new campus be funded through taxpayer dollars or potential tax increases in Sarpy County or other parts of MCC’s service area? Will the project affect the affordability of tuition?
Affordable tuition will always remain central to the MCC mission. Thanks to years of strong fiscal stewardship, the college is in a solid position to responsibly pursue this project.
Recent campus expansions at the Fort and South Omaha Campuses were successfully completed using a combination of private and college capital support, and notably, without raising tuition, issuing bonds, or increasing capital tax levies.
MCC will explore a range of financing mechanisms and revenue sources to support development of the new campus, but that strategy does not include increasing tuition. There are no current plans to seek tax increases in Sarpy County or the College’s four-county service area
What is going to happen to the existing MCC Sarpy Center on 91st and Giles Road?
Programming at the existing Sarpy Center, a shared facility with the City of LaVista, is currently being reorganized to emphasize non-credit and lifelong learning courses, along with high school dual enrollment programs
