Raudel Banuelos leads the traditional Chumash blessing during the dedication of a new entrance to CSU Channel Islands on May. 11. Photo by Jack Sanchez / Amigos805
University officials, political leaders and the public gathered on May 11 for the official opening of a new four-lane University Drive main entrance road at California State University, Channel Island.
The public dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony included a presentation by University President Richard Rush and a traditional Chumash blessing by Raudel Banuelos. Attending the ceremony were Ventura County Supervisors Kathy Long and Linda Parks.
The ceremony caps an 18-month, $21 million road construction project designed to accommodate the eventual growth of the campus to 15,000 full-time equivalent students, university officials reported in a media release. The new ¾-mile entrance road connects Lewis Road with the central part of campus at Santa Barbara Avenue. The two-lane road previously known as “University Drive” will revert to its original name, “Camarillo Street.” It will primarily serve University Glen residents and businesses, but also will provide campus access.
The new University Drive provides a visually appealing entrance to the campus, incorporating a wide, landscaped median; abundant native plants; sidewalks, a pedestrian bridge, and bike trails; and sweeping views of citrus groves and the Santa Monica Mountains, university officials reported. The road also serves as a testament to CI’s commitment to sustainability, from its roadway surface of recycled tires to high efficiency lighting to “bioswales” that capture and clean storm water runoff from the paved areas.
“The new University Drive represents CI’s connection to the community, our commitment to the environment and the rich history that surrounds us, and our excitement for future growth,” Rush stated in the release.
CSU Channel Islands President Richard Rush welcomes guests to the dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony for the university's new entrance on May. 11. Photo by Jack Sanchez / Amigos805
CSU Channel Islands President Richard Rush leads the ribbon cutting ceremony for the university's new entrance on May. 11. Photo by Jack Sanchez / Amigos805