Within the past two years, Walden West has undergone several positive changes, thanks to some financial support from local organizations. It recently expanded some of its outreach programs, had solar panels installed and added a swimming pool. However, nothing could compare with the outdoor center's latest project.

On Jan. 13, members of the Walden West Foundation launched a $7 million campaign to upgrade some of the existing facilities and to build new structures, including six cabins equipped with bathrooms and showers and two science laboratories. The largest and most costly addition will be the 9,000-square-foot multipurpose lodge. This structure will be located at the center's front entrance next to the current administrative office building, which was used as an airplane hanger when it was built in the 1950s, and the dormitories, formerly classrooms back when the site was called Redwood Glen.

The estimated $3.3 million facility would replace the existing dining hall and kitchen, which are portable-like structures that were originally designed to last only five years when it was built in the 1980s and are not compliant with certain building codes. It will also house an amphitheater, workstations, a conference room and a lobby.

The project comes at a time when schools need it most, said Anita Parsons, co-director of Walden West and member of the foundation.

"Science education is lacking in several of the schools as a result of the recent budget cuts," Parsons said. "But this project will allow us to further expand our science programs and to create new ones for students as well as teachers who may be interested in holding workshops on our site."

John Meier, one of the night supervisors at the center, said that many of the facilities, especially the dining hall, are outdated and in need of major renovation.

"The dining room is not as welcoming as we'd like it to be," Meier said.

According to Parsons, the center, which is owned by the Santa Clara County Office of Education, welcomes approximately 165 fifth- and sixth-grade students from public and private schools throughout Santa Clara County each week. She said that with such high attendance and inadequate facilities, it can be a challenge finding places to fit visitors, especially during the rainy season.

"There are not many places where the kids can go when it rains," Parsons said. "The only place where they can hang out is the dining room, which can be quite busy when workers are trying to set up tables and meals."

Another new feature that would help keep students dry is the proposed overhang attached to the lodge, connecting it to the bus loading and unloading zone.

"On extremely rainy days, the kids get soaked carrying their luggage from the bus to their rooms," Parsons said. "In addition, it can be difficult for them to pay attention and listen to instructions when they're wet and cold."

This is an experience that fifth-grade teacher Joe Hermann at Brooktree Elementary School knows all too well.

"Walden West is a wonderful learning center, but the rain can sometimes ruin the students' experiences." Hermann said. "It's a hassle when the kids have to deal with flooded floors and wet luggage."

Despite this, Hermann said he has been bringing students to the center for the past several years because it is a good resource for students to get hands-on experience in science education. He also said that with better facilities and a more welcoming atmosphere, students would feel more inclined to learn and appreciate nature.

Parsons said she is hopeful that the project will come to fruition within the six-year plan. However, the foundation may reach its goal even sooner than expected. According to Parsons, the foundation has received close to half of its needed $7 million, with the Santa Clara County Office of Education contributing $2 million and $1 million coming from the foundation's president, Abby Sobrato, and her husband, John.

"Education is one of the best things we can give kids," said Abby Sobrato, who announced the contribution the night the campaign was launched. "Better facilities lead to a more conducive learning environment. In addition, the center will be able to offer so much more."

The foundation also requested a $3 million grant from the urban parks fund. Sobrato said it may take a while to hear from the agency.

For more information about the Walden West Science Learning Center Project, contact Anita Parsons at 408.867.5950.