Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google

UT System Approves First Funds for New Campus

  • By Matt Jones
  • 02/26/26

Key Takeaways

  • The UT System Board of Regents approved $94.3 million to build the first facility of UTA West, a new 51-acre branch campus in far west Fort Worth set to open in fall 2028.
  • The project aims to support rapid regional population growth—particularly in Parker County, one of Texas’ fastest-growing counties—and address workforce needs in North Texas.
  • University leaders describe UTA West as a strategic investment that will expand access to a leading research university and drive long-term economic growth in the region.

The University of Texas System Board of Regents recently approved funds to build the first facility of a new campus in far west Fort Worth, Texas, according to university news. UTA West will serve as a branch of the University of Texas at Arlington and is scheduled to open in fall 2028; the new building has an estimated cost of $94.3 million.

Local news reports that funding for infrastructure improvements like utilities, site preparation, and site parking was passed in November. The new campus will cover 51 acres.

“UTA West represents the kind of strategic investment that strengthens opportunity and economic growth in Texas,” said UT System Chancellor John M. Zerwas, MD. “I know how important this project is to the Board of Regents and to the future of this fast-growing region. This funding moves UT Arlington closer to expanding access to a leading research university and helping meet the workforce needs of North Texas.”

The new campus development is a response to rapid population growth in Fort Worth and Parker County, according to the news release. The county’s population grew by 19.4% between 2020 and 2024, putting it at the third-fastest-growing county in the state.

“This investment marks a defining moment for our university and the region we proudly serve,” said UTA President Jennifer Cowley. “I am deeply grateful to our Board of Regents for their steadfast belief in what UTA West will mean for generations of students. Their meaningful support will help turn our big dream into a tangible reality.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • Deferred Maintenance Issues Growing at Universities, Gordian Reports

    U.S. colleges and universities are falling increasingly behind on facilities maintenance and repair, according to Gordian’s 13th annual State of Facilities in Higher Education report. The deferred capital renewal burden has reached $156 per gross square foot, an 8% increase over the previous year.

  • Minnesota District Starts Construction on Early Childhood Learning Center

    Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools in Sauk Rapids, Minn., recently announced that construction has begun on a new early childhood learning center and a new outdoor activities complex, according to a news release.

  • Rowan University, HPE Partner on New Learning Initiative

    Rowan University in Glassboro, N.J., recently announced that it has expanded its partnership with enterprise technology provider HPE to improve research capabilities and hands-on learning opportunities, according to a news release.

  • Cal Poly Humboldt Starts Construction on Healthcare Education Hub

    California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt in Arcata, Calif., recently announced that work has begun on a renovation project that will turn the Stewart Building into a new Healthcare Education Hub, according to a news release. The university is partnering with Sundt Construction Inc. for construction services.