Local Modesto Junior College student may have access to closer resources as development for a site in Turlock is on the horizon.

MJC is one of two colleges under the wing of the Yosemite Community College District, accompanied by Columbia College, and serves as a harbor for many local students who are beginning or continuing their collegiate career. The YCCD Board of Trustees met for their monthly board meeting on Wednesday where the purchase of a four acre lot in Turlock was on the closed session agenda like it has been since August of last year. The lot is at the corner of Dianne Drive and Polous Drive in Turlock and the purchase would be a part of the Measure E bond program for the expansion of the junior college.

According to YCCD director of Public Affairs Nick Stavrianoudakis, the District is in the process of purchasing land but until environmental studies are completed and the sale is closed details cannot be discussed.

The Turlock site would host a state of the art learning center that would aid in serving students of the southern end of the District, including Turlock, Hughson, Hilmar and Denair according to the Program Management Plan for Measure E Bond Program. The Program budgets $937,185 for the project, which will likely play host to programs for vocational skills, continuing education and basic skills. The bond only covers land acquisition as other sources will fund the building of the site.

“There is no intention to build at this time, but it would be for future consideration,” said Stavrianoudakis.

The acquisition of the Turlock property was included in the closed session agenda for the YCCD Board of Trustees meeting Wednesday evening. The District could not be reached to confirm if the purchase was approved or will remain on the agenda.