The University of Alabama is kicking off the fall 2025 semester with several new and upgraded facilities designed to improve the student, faculty, and staff experience. Through its Building Bama initiative, the university has delivered a series of construction and renovation projects that enhance academic spaces, infrastructure, recreation, and the arts.
One of the most notable projects is the renovation and expansion of the Psychology Building, formerly known as Searcy Hall along Peter Bryce Boulevard. The updated facility includes a large lecture hall, modern classrooms, research labs, and office space, supporting the department’s relocation from Gordon Palmer Hall. In addition to expanded academic capacity, the building now features critical updates such as an elevator, new mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems, as well as UA’s enterprise technology standards for networking, access control, security, and audio-visual support.
Over the summer, those visiting campus likely noticed significant infrastructure work along Colonial Drive and University Boulevard near the Quad. This project tackled crucial underground improvements including rerouted sanitary sewer lines, new thermal piping routed to Reese Phifer Hall and the Central Thermal System, and upgrades to critical water and natural gas systems. Above ground, the project delivered new paving, landscaping, bike paths, lighting, and enhanced security features, providing both functional and aesthetic improvements.
Another major upgrade includes the Capital Hall renovation and addition, which now houses the university’s department of theatre and dance costume shop. Relocated from Rowand-Johnson Hall, the new facility provides dedicated classroom laboratories, shop spaces, offices, fitting rooms, storage, and other essential support areas. Importantly, the move strategically places the program closer to the Smith Family Center for the Performing Arts, scheduled for completion in November 2026, creating a future hub for performing arts education and production.
Recreational facilities have also received attention. At the Student Recreation Center, pickleball enthusiasts will soon enjoy eight additional courts, complete with lighting, secure access, and spectator-friendly layouts. The expansion responds to the sport’s surging popularity among students and Tuscaloosa residents and is set to open in early fall.
The university emphasized that these projects reflect its ongoing investment in state-of-the-art facilities and modern infrastructure. “The University of Alabama continues to make strides in providing elite facilities and amenities to students, faculty and staff,” the school said, noting that the latest upgrades “are designed to enrich the learning, research, and recreational environment for the campus community.”
Looking ahead, UA has several more projects in the pipeline as part of its Building Bama initiative, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence, student life, and campus growth.
For more details on ongoing and future projects, the university encourages the community to visit the official Building Bama website.
Originally reported by Bryant Welbourne in The University Of Alabama.
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