Central New Mexico Community College Student Resource Center Plaza

Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) has seen many changes across its campus near Coal Avenue and University Boulevard. One of the most visible transformations is the plaza in front of the Student Resources Center. Once an underused lawn and later an expanse of gray crushed gravel intended for ceremonial events, the site lacked comfort, shade, and meaningful everyday use.

In 2021, CNM commissioned SITES to reimagine the area as a central gathering space that would support campus life. The new plaza features a series of custom-designed radial shade structures surrounding an elevated stage, creating a flexible space for events, performances, casual gatherings, and day-to-day student use. The canopies provide shade and weather protection from above and were also designed to screen low-angle sun from the sides, significantly improving comfort throughout the day.

Sustainable water strategies were integrated into the design, with rainwater captured from the shade structures and permeable pavers, then directed into a subsurface distribution system and bioswale that irrigate shade trees throughout the plaza. The enhanced gathering space opened to students and faculty in fall 2022, offering a welcoming and functional new centerpiece for the CNM campus.