
City of Emeryville & Emery Unified School District
EMERYVILLE CENTER OF COMMUNITY LIFE
Creating a community heartbeat: a first-of-its kind center that incorporates a K-12 school, health and social services, and arts and recreation into an enduring community hub
The first joint-use facility in the nation, the Emeryville Center of Community Life (ECCL) pioneered state legislation to authorize multiuse of school buildings. The 115,000-SF center consolidated facilities from six sites to reduce inefficiencies, improve educational performance, and deliver comprehensive services to citizens of all ages. MKThink undertook in-depth stakeholder engagement and conducted 20+ participatory workshops to ensure a design that responds to the diverse needs of the community. Scenario modeling established a strong case for the financial and community benefit and won the necessary approvals from the school board and city officials.