Project Overview
This project addresses the demand for enrollment in the Performing Arts programs by constructing a new complex that will combine music, drama, theater arts, and communication programs into a single facility. The new building will replace outdated facilities with electrical deficiencies and outmoded configurations. The new structure will take advantage of the potential use of commonly required spaces to improve overall utilization and flexible spaces that help programs in meeting higher demands anticipated in the near future.
Status: Construction
Project Costs: Measure J=$92,005,166; Local=$163,859; Capital Outlay=$43,787,000
Architect of Record: Perkins Eastman Architects DPC
Project Manager: John Erickson
General Contractor: SJ Amoroso
Construction Manager: Kitchell/CEM, Inc.
Program Management: MAAS Companies
Construction Start: May 2025
Anticipated Construction Completion: Summer 2028
Future Site For New Performing Arts Complex
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Construction Progress Photos
Upcoming Milestones
- CMU Wall Installation
- Foundation Activities at Orchestra Pit
Impacts and Closures
- Working is scheduled Monday - Friday from 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- Expect some noise, dust, and loss of use parking lot during construction
Emergency Contact:
- Mike McNally: 714-433-2326
Q3 2026 Project Update
New Performing Arts Complex
July
At the New Performing Arts Complex, work ramped up activities in all areas progressed. At the West Building, Recital Hall roof framing was carried out as structural steel was welded in place. Then, roof assembly advanced with the placement of metal decking to form the enclosure; shotcrete was then set on top of the metal girders to cover the structure.
On the West Building’s interior, general areas and restrooms began forming on the first level with the placement of ducts sprinkler systems, and conduits in wall frames before starting mechanical, electrical and plumbing work. Crews are also framing for drywall sequentially before placing insulation inside and closing the wall with drywall sheets. Scaffolding was erected to facilitate the installation of overhead sprinklers, lighting, production systems, drapery tracks, fireproofing, and utilities.
At the Basement of the Main Auditorium crews placed the final caissons for a total of 75 to reinforce the building foundation in early July. Operations included excavation for grade beams and pier caps followed by mechanical, electrical, and plumbing sleeves, anchor bolts, and templates. Concrete pours followed in mid-July.
Walls were then cast in place using concrete pours, and wires, conduits and pipes were embedded into the unfinished walls before the final concrete was poured and underwent curing. Crews are expected to begin waterproofing the area in early August.





