Stanislaus State considers new campus to expand education, jobs. Where it would be
Stanislaus State is considering a new academic site in Tracy to broaden student opportunities, strengthen workforce development and build public-private partnerships, according to a press release.
The project is still in the exploratory phase and would be part of the 1,500-acre Pacific Gateway development near Interstate 580 and Highway 132. Stanislaus State is working with Ridgeline Property Group, a private commercial real estate developer and investor, on the proposal. If built, the Tracy site would become the university’s third location, alongside Turlock and its Stockton satellite campus.
“Rooted in the heart of the Central Valley, this opportunity to extend the promise of education at Pacific Gateway offers a visionary pathway to strengthen our regional impact and enhance access to higher education,” said Stanislaus State President Britt Rios-Ellis. “Establishing an academic site in the Tracy area within this dynamic hub reflects our mission to uplift communities through affordable, high-quality academic offerings that are responsive to local needs.”
San Joaquin County Supervisor Robert Rickman called it “a pivotal moment” for the county, bringing accessible, high-quality higher education directly to local communities.
“San Joaquin County is rich in resources and is one of the fastest-growing counties in the state. This investment would strengthen our education-to-employment pipeline, create and attract sustainable jobs and support the long-term quality of life for our families,” said Rickman. “We look forward to partnering closely with Stanislaus State in the months ahead.”
CSU Chancellor Mildred García said the initiative aligns with the region’s workforce and educational needs. “This important first step reflects our ongoing commitment to serving the Central Valley and preparing the talent that will power the region’s — and California’s — future,” García said.
With support from the prominent almond-growing Sandhu family, Pacific Gateway plans to provide infrastructure, donate the first university building on a 66-acre site and contribute $20 million toward operations to help establish a permanent Tracy presence for Stanislaus State.
The site will “extend the university’s reach, uplift the region and augment the transformative power of education in the Central Valley for generations to come,” Ridgeline Property Group partner Steve Arthur said.
“We are pleased to partner with Stanislaus State to bring a college academic site to Tracy at Pacific Gateway. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to provide accessible, high-quality education and foster economic growth in the region,” he said.
Stan State and Ridgeline are working with local leaders, businesses and community partners to build support for the university’s expansion in Tracy. More details will be released as the project moves forward. Those interested in supporting the effort can contact Vice President for University Advancement Catherine Wooton at 209-667-3131.
This story was originally published August 26, 2025 at 4:54 PM.
