BySpecial to the Star • June 2, 2026

Gulf Coast State College celebrated a major milestone on May 28, with the groundbreaking ceremony for its new multi-purpose classroom building and shelter at the Gulf/Franklin Campus in Port St. Joe. 

GCSC President Glen McDonald and Boyd Bulger, chair of the GCSC district board of trustees, joined elected officials, community partners, faculty, staff, and supporters to mark the beginning of a project that will expand educational opportunities while strengthening community resilience in Gulf and Franklin counties. 

The approximately 12,000-square-foot facility, added to the roughly 19,000 square foot campus, will provide much-needed classroom and instructional space for the growing campus, while also serving as a shelter of last resort during emergencies.

Speakers highlighted the project’s dual purpose of supporting student success and enhancing public safety for local residents. The building will also provide space for special campus events, workforce training, and community gatherings. 

Construction is expected to begin within the next few weeks, with completion anticipated in 2027. 

College leaders expressed gratitude to the local and state officials, board of trustees, project partners, and Gulf/Franklin Campus faculty and staff whose support and collaboration helped make the project possible. The groundbreaking represents another step forward in Gulf Coast State College’s continued commitment to expanding access to education and investing in the future of the region.