Preparing for Tomorrow’s Heat: SBVC to Launch Shade, Hydration Project

San Bernardino Valley College Secures $449,400 Grant from Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation’s to Combat Extreme Heat

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. — As fall and winter bring cooler temperatures to the Inland Empire, San Bernardino Valley College is looking ahead to prepare for the intense heat that will return in the warmer months. Thanks to a $449,400 grant from the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation, San Bernardino Valley College is taking proactive steps to create a more comfortable and sustainable campus for students and the community.

The Valley College Community Shade and Hydration Stations Project will transform the campus with features designed to combat extreme heat, directly addressing feedback from students:

• Shaded Areas: Shade structures, an urban tree canopy, and tree-lined pathways will provide relief from the sun while creating inviting spaces for students and visitors to relax and connect.
• Hydration Stations: Thirteen new water bottle refill stations will be installed across campus in high-traffic areas and near classrooms, making it easy to stay hydrated.
• Solar-Powered Study Tables: Collaboration tables powered by solar energy will offer sustainable and comfortable spots for group work and studying.

“We’re planning for the future, making sure that when the heat returns, our students have a campus that’s comfortable, safe, and designed with them in mind,” said SBVC President Gilbert J. Contreras.

“These upgrades came directly from our students’ voices. We listened at San Bernardino Valley College. With shaded spaces, cool water stations, and solar-powered study spots, we’re setting an example in sustainability too. It’s all about building a campus where students feel supported and can focus on achieving their goals,” Contreras said.

Extreme heat is a growing concern across California, and the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation’s Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Program helps communities like San Bernardino take meaningful steps to adapt.

With this project, San Bernardino Valley College is creating practical solutions based on student input, demonstrating how campuses can address environmental challenges while supporting the students and communities they serve.

Funding for this project is provided by the state’s Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Program (EHCRP). For more information, visit: lci.ca.gov/climate/icarp/grants/extreme-heat-community-resilience.html