Stanislaus State University is set to make a significant leap in expanding educational opportunities with plans for a new satellite campus in Tracy, California. The proposed campus will be part of the Pacific Gateway development, a massive 1,500-acre master-planned project located at the intersection of Interstate 580 and Highway 132.

University President Britt Rios-Ellis sees this expansion as more than just a new campus location. “This three-location solution is designed to increase social mobility, fuel economic vitality, and cultivate a culturally rich and resilient future for San Joaquin County and beyond,” she explained.

The ambitious project is being made possible through a collaborative effort between the university, Ridgeline Development Corp., and the Sandhu family, prominent local almond growers. They will contribute the infrastructure and initial building on a 66-acre parcel, with the campus nestled among industrial buildings in a park-like setting.

This new academic site isn’t just about adding another campus - it’s strategically focused on meeting regional workforce needs. The curriculum will emphasize key industries including business, logistics, supply chain management, agriculture, education, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.

Local political leaders are enthusiastically supporting the initiative. Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom, a CSU alumna, expressed her excitement about expanding college accessibility for families in the region. San Joaquin County Supervisor Robert Rickman called the proposal “a pivotal moment” for the county.

If plans proceed as anticipated, construction could begin by late 2026, with the campus potentially opening its doors in 2028. This expansion represents a significant investment in local education and economic development, providing new pathways for students and supporting the region’s growing industries.

The satellite campus will complement Stanislaus State’s existing locations in Turlock and Stockton, creating a comprehensive educational network that promises to transform opportunities for students across San Joaquin County.