LEXINGTON, Ky. — Turner Construction Company and the University of Kentucky (UK) have marked a major milestone with the topping out of UK’s new Agricultural Research Facility, celebrating the completion of vertical construction on the ambitious $184 million project.

When finished, the 235,000-square-foot facility will advance the university’s agricultural research mission and enhance student learning through modern labs, teaching spaces, faculty offices, rooftop greenhouses, a separate teaching greenhouse, and a 250-seat auditorium designed to promote collaboration and innovation.

“This is a significant achievement for a project that only began deep foundations in November,” said David Opalka, Vice President & Construction Executive at Turner Construction Company. “Our project team has overcome the challenging winter bringing creative solutions to deliver this milestone. We appreciate the partnership with our design partner BHDP Architecture, and the University of Kentucky for their continued trust in Turner to deliver transformative spaces.”

The new Agricultural Research Facility continues a decades-long partnership between Turner and the University of Kentucky, which together have delivered more than 30 completed projects.

The facility is on track for completion in late 2026.

The Agricultural Research Facility will serve as a vital center for interdisciplinary research addressing critical challenges in Kentucky’s agricultural sector, from sustainable crop production to innovative food systems and climate resilience. University leaders say the building’s flexible lab layouts and integrated greenhouses will expand opportunities for students and faculty to collaborate on real-world solutions for farmers and communities across the state.

Turner Construction, one of the nation’s leading builders of higher education and research facilities, worked closely with design partner BHDP Architecture to create a space that fosters discovery while prioritizing energy efficiency and adaptability for future research needs.

In addition to its state-of-the-art laboratories and learning spaces, the new facility is designed to meet modern sustainability standards and support hands-on learning through its advanced greenhouse systems. The 250-seat auditorium will host lectures, seminars, and industry partnerships, helping bridge academic research with Kentucky’s broader agricultural economy.

University of Kentucky officials say the facility underscores the institution’s commitment to advancing Kentucky’s agricultural legacy while preparing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and leaders in the field.

With the structural phase now complete, the project team will shift focus to interior systems, greenhouse installation, and specialized lab fit-outs ahead of its anticipated opening in late 2026.

Originally reported by Turner Construction.