“The Educational Cultural Complex Theatre has been a cornerstone of arts and culture in the Southeastern San Diego community for nearly 50 years,” said SDCCE President Dr. Tina M. King. “For generations, it has served as a vibrant hub where creativity, education, and community come together—uplifting voices, showcasing talent, and telling the stories that matter most to our diverse community. This renovation is not just about restoring a building; it’s about honoring a rich legacy and investing in a future where the arts continue to thrive and serve our community for decades.”
See photos from the groundbreaking
The renovation project is funded through a $35 million state grant secured by California Senate President pro Tempore Emeritus Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego) in 2021, supplemented by Measure HH, a bond measure approved by nearly 60% of San Diego voters in November 2024.
Designed by HGA of San Diego—also behind the Jacobs Music Center renovation—the project is the result of a collaborative vision shaped through community engagement sessions with students, faculty, and stakeholders. HGA submitted its final plans to the California Division of the State Architect for approval.
“It has been a privilege to collaborate with the San Diego Community College District and the College of Continuing Education to revitalize the ECC Theatre. Resulting from a holistic approach to programming and design informed by input from the community, the revitalized space honors its deep-rooted history and empowers users to pursue educational goals and explore culture through the performing arts,” said Kevin Donaghey, principal with HGA.
The historic renovation and expansion will cover 27,000 square feet, including 3,200 square feet of new construction. The design preserves the theatre’s architectural character while delivering significant upgrades, including:
- Improved accessibility
- Advanced acoustic treatments and modern sound/lighting systems
- A reimagined stage and seating layout
- Renovated entries, foyers, and outdoor patio areas
- A new “Living Archive” cultural center to preserve and share the theatre’s legacy
A new multi-use community room will accommodate theatre overflow, public events, and cultural exhibits. Future phases include converting an existing two-story classroom into a “living museum” that honors ECC’s enduring legacy of civil rights advocacy and community leadership.
Construction is being managed by PCL Construction and is expected to be completed by December 2026.
“We know the impact the ECC Theatre has made in San Diego over its storied history, advancing the local community's arts and culture. PCL is honored to partner with the San Diego Community College District to deliver a project that will inspire and bring people together for years to come," said Lucas Mallory, area manager for PCL Construction in San Diego.
Since its inception in 1972, the ECC has been a beacon of arts, activism, and education. In 1983, Coretta Scott King’s appearance at the ECC was pivotal in the movement that led to the national Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday. Other luminaries who have graced the ECC stage include Stevie Wonder, Maya Angelou, Shirley Caesar, James Meredith, and Jesse Jackson.