About
Jefferson Community and Technical College (Jefferson) is transforming our flagship Downtown Louisville Campus by elevating the student, staff, visitor, and community experience serving as a catalyst for transformational downtown redevelopment. Jefferson Rising, a $90 million, multi-year renovation project will create a dynamic campus life, with dedicated areas for students and staff to gather, study, and relax.
- New 40,000+ sq. ft. Center for Science and Discovery with state-of-the-art science labs
- New 40,000+ sq. ft. mathematics and general education academic facility
- Park-like central gathering areas including an outdoor classroom, multiple student activity areas, more than 50 new trees
- New four-level, 500+ space parking garage that opens up the central part of the campus
- Removal of the existing Hartford Hall Tower and central parking lot between 1st and 2nd streets
Pride of Place
On a macro level, the entire project represents our goal to provide Jefferson students with the same “pride of place” as students at other post-secondary institutions.
STEM
The first major milestone of the campus transformation occurred in October 2025 when the Center for Science and Discovery opened for classes, providing Jefferson students with a beautiful new place to learn equipped with modern classrooms and technology.
Environment and Beauty
Closely aligned with Pride of Place, the campaign will create much needed downtown green space to enhance our environment. It will make the Broadway Corridor a welcoming oasis to the city core. Public art and placemaking are key components of activating this large green space.
Economic Development
The campus location, on an iconic corner in and near Louisville Medical/Education District (LOUMED), Metro’s “Broadway All the Way” project, and the Downtown Library, offer a myriad of additional possibilities for integrating the College with the larger community.
Our Vision for Jefferson Rising
Jefferson Rising is more than beautifying a space, it is about developing an atmosphere that shows Jefferson students are deserving of state-of-the-art facilities, safe and ample parking, and a true college campus quad with trees and benches, creating a sense of belonging and pride.
With the support of the community, Jefferson Rising will ensure Jefferson continues to be a shining beacon of hope and opportunity as well as a trusted leader in the region’s educational and economic growth.
