In 1975, the Rio Grande Campus,- then just a single building on Rio Grande Street, became the first permanent facility for El Paso Community College. Using funds and equipment donated by Project Hope, the campus focused on education of a five-story wing in 1980 enabled the college to expand its course offerings to include the arts, sciences, and other occupational education programs. Basic academic skills and credit courses in English as a Second Language (ESL) are offered as well.

The campus is strategically located near the center of the downtown business district at 100 W. Rio Grande Street. It provides a top-quality learning environment for its diverse population of over 5,000 students. The full range of college services are available, including admissions, financial aid, counseling, registration and security, as well as a bookstore, library, and cafeteria.

Renovation and expansion of the campus began in 1995 with the addition of classrooms, a new library, and paved student parking lots. The new Health and Science Laboratory building opened in fall 2003, and the multi-level parking garage opened the following year.