LAIE, Hawaii — Major transformation is underway at Brigham Young University–Hawaii, where multiple large-scale construction projects are reshaping the campus to better serve its diverse student body for generations to come.

This summer, three new single-student dorms, upgraded married student apartments, and the beginning phases of the ambitious McKay Building replacement signal BYU–Hawaii’s commitment to pairing modern facilities with its faith-centered educational mission.

Modern Dorms for a Global Community

Earlier this year, Hale 11 welcomed its first students—marking the first new single-student dorm built on campus in over a decade. The four-story apartment-style building, designed for female students, features in-unit laundry and modern common areas for study and connection.

Just next door, Hale 12 opened in June, expanding housing capacity and adding a unique feature reflecting the island lifestyle: secure surfboard and bicycle parking.

“These hale projects are designed to elevate the living and learning environment for a diverse student body from across the globe,” said Mone Tuifua, Okland Construction’s project manager. “It’s been an honor to return to the very grounds where our educational and personal journeys began, now helping build the future for students across the Pacific and beyond.”

Hale 13, which will house male students, is expected to open in December 2025, further addressing growing demand for modern student accommodations.

TVA Updates: New Homes, Sustainable Design

Progress is also moving ahead at Temple View Apartments (TVA), BYU–Hawaii’s housing for married students and families. Jacobsen Construction is overseeing the build-out of TVA Building A4, which is on track to open by the end of August. Building A5 will follow, with a targeted opening of July 2026.

As part of the ongoing redevelopment, TVA buildings J, K, L, and M are slated for demolition in August to make way for more durable, hurricane-resilient structures using modern insulated concrete forms (ICF).

“It is a privilege to be part of the work on the BYUH campus,” said Shawn Thomas, project director at Jacobsen Construction. “These new housing units will serve students and their families for many years to come. We appreciate the opportunity to be involved in this great cause.”

McKay Building: Transforming the Academic Core

While housing developments address growing residential needs, BYU–Hawaii has also broken ground on its biggest academic facility overhaul in recent memory: the David O. McKay Complex replacement project.

Construction fences now surround the front section of the historic McKay building as crews prepare for demolition. Over the next five years, this transformative effort will replace the aging classroom block, portions of the Joseph F. Smith Library, and the Aloha Center with five new structures:

• A state-of-the-art classroom building
• Modern faculty offices
• An auditorium
• A comprehensive student service center and welcome hub
• A new student commons designed for collaboration and worship

Building a Faith-Centered Future

According to the university’s Planning, Design & Construction Department, these developments are part of BYU–Hawaii’s long-term vision to “provide a peaceful, clean, and functional campus” that nurtures students academically and spiritually.

The new facilities will not only add space for larger classes and more community events but also reflect the school’s mission to infuse every corner of campus with reminders of faith in Christ and service to others.

“With every beam and blueprint, the university is building more than physical structures—it is shaping an environment where students can discover their divine identity, grow in purpose, and be equipped to serve and lead with compassion and conviction across Oceania and the Asian Rim,” the university shared.

Staying Informed

For live streams and updates on these transformative projects, visit construction.byuh.edu.

BYU–Hawaii’s investment today ensures that tomorrow’s leaders have a “home away from home” where they can grow in faith, scholarship, and service—right where the waves meet the campus.

Originally reported by Juan Carlos De Los Reyes in BYU Hawaii.