The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) recently reached a significant construction milestone for its new state-of-the-art academic facility, Texas Western Hall. The university hosted a traditional “topping out” ceremony, marking the placement of the final structural beam of the project. This milestone reflects not just physical progress but also the collective effort and vision behind the project, according to university news.

The new academic complex, built in collaboration with Sundt Construction, is designed to transform the learning experience at UTEP. Construction began in late 2023 and is slated for completion by spring 2026. The $110 million building will encompass 124,725 square feet of modern amenities, including nearly 30 classrooms, several large auditoriums, 23 collaboration spaces, a rooftop terrace, and a café, all aimed at enhancing the campus experience for students and faculty alike.

“Working together, the UTEP, Ayers Saint Gross and Sundt teams have created a beautiful building that reflects both the tradition of Bhutanese architecture at UTEP and the need for a 21st-century learning environment,” said Joseph Riccillo, Sundt’s vice president and El Paso regional director. “I’m thankful to celebrate this milestone with our partners and everyone who has worked on Texas Western Hall, and I look forward to the day very soon when we can officially open it for use.”

The design of Texas Western Hall highlights UTEP’s commitment to honoring its heritage while embracing innovation. Its Bhutanese-inspired architecture, a hallmark of the university’s campus, will seamlessly integrate with state-of-the-art facilities that cater to modern learning needs.

The project is funded through a combination of support from the Texas legislature and permanent funds allocated by The University of Texas System Board of Regents. These financial resources reflect the importance placed on the university's role as a hub for education, research, and community engagement.

Upon completion, Texas Western Hall will not only serve as a center for education but will also catalyze further development on the UTEP campus. Following the opening of the facility, the adjacent Liberal Arts building will be demolished to restore the arroyo beneath it, a natural feature of the campus landscape that will be preserved and integrated into the university’s long-term sustainability plans.

This milestone comes at a pivotal time for UTEP, as the university continues to grow its reputation as a leader in higher education and innovation in the region. Texas Western Hall promises to be a transformative addition to the campus, offering students and faculty a world-class space to learn, collaborate, and grow.