Finkelstein Performing Arts Center Earns LEED Platinum Certification

Publish Date: Oct. 22, 2026

Crafton Hills College’s new Finkelstein Performing Arts Center (PAC) has earned LEED Platinum certification, the highest recognition awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council for sustainable building design. According to the project’s architects, DLR Group, it is the first newly constructed performing arts facility in California to achieve this distinction under the current LEED rating system. This is a monumental accomplishment for a performing arts facility, which typically requires significantly more energy than a traditional building.

From the very beginning of the design process, the PAC was envisioned with sustainability in mind. The all-electric building is designed to run entirely on renewable energy generated by the campus’s solar array and uses 42% less water than a comparable building. It also features improved air filtration, environmentally friendly building materials and landscaping that helps filter stormwater naturally. These features create a healthy environment for students, employees and visitors while helping the college save on long-term operating costs.

In addition to the building’s LEED Platinum certification, it is now under consideration for a separate LEED Zero Energy certification, a designation that verifies that the building offsets all of its annual energy use with renewable energy. While that certification is still in progress, the facility was designed to achieve this goal, with the potential to eliminate its net annual electricity costs.

What makes this achievement especially meaningful is the impact the facility has on our students and community. The PAC is much more than a beautiful new building. It gives our students access to professional-quality performance and learning spaces while bringing music, theatre and cultural experiences to our surrounding communities. It is a place where students can discover their talents, families can enjoy performances and community members can connect with the college.

This accomplishment represents nearly six years of planning, creativity and teamwork among the district, college, architects and construction teams. Crafton Hills College is proud of what has been accomplished through this collaborative effort and looks forward to the many opportunities the facility will provide for students and the community for years to come.