Construction of the CCHEC
The project has reclaimed and transformed the existing site that is significant in the landscape of the City. It is located at the northern edge of the Clarksdale City grid, at the edge of the Sunflower River and on the bluff overlooking delta farmland to the north. The project re-integrated the campus into the fabric of the City and linked the campus both physically and programmatically with the general community and specifically Blues Alley. The meadow that runs below the bluff will be restored through the site/buildings and transformed within the complex into a parking lot. The new complex has outdoor public spaces for the community and institutions. The new courtyard is designed as a central organizing space between the mansion and academic buildings. It will serve as an amphitheater for formal use and will also support informal gatherings and discussions. The front yard of the house is in the process of being restored as a formal park for community use. The varying scales and characteristics of the outdoor spaces will accommodate teaching, performances, and receptions. The exterior of the building and grounds incorporate design features that are in harmony with the Delta and the Mississippi climate including shaded functional areas, and use of native plant material. The new complex is made of durable materials and detailed to ensure longevity and minimal maintenance. The new building ncorporates a technological infrastructure plan for state-of-the-art data, telecommunications, and audiovisual systems as well as additional “open infrastructure” plans for future technology advancements. The diverse partners and uses of the Center require that the complex and grounds be usable for many different kinds of activities at all times of day and night. The CCHEC offers academic classes, special programs, and community events (interior and exterior). The restored historic Cutrer Mansion is available for all types of functions; weddings, reunions, parties, etc. All of these functions may be scheduled anytime of the day or night. The building services, access, and security are all designed to be highly useable with many different circumstances.
To accomplish this kind of functional and schedule variability, the master plan and design used shaded outdoor galleries to connect the upper and lower level and multiple entry and exit points, an open site plan and coordinated security and access systems. The existing abandoned campus included three building located on the founding site of the City of Clarksdale. The sense of place is historic but also fused in the landscape. The site originally chosen by the Clark family was a natural bluff overlooking the northern farm land and Sunflower River.
The existing gymnasium is in good condition and will be renovated when the funds are available. The initial and ongoing goal of project planning is to integrate the new campus in the City of Clarksdale with the landscape and historical origins of the site. The addition is sited to reconnect the complex with the grid of downtown Clarksdale and align the outdoor theater with Yazoo Avenue and the Delta
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The primary purpose of the master plan is to transform an abandoned historic house and Catholic school complex into a satellite campus that provides a multi-purpose educational / conference facility for a partnership of Delta State University, Coahoma County, Coahoma Community College and the City of Clarksdale Mississippi.