A university in Houston has broken ground on a $45 million development, set to double the capacity of student housing on campus. The University of St. Thomas, located in Houston’s Montrose neighborhood, has broken ground on a new residence hall, according to a recent news release. The 100,000-square-foot, five-story building will have space for approximately 400 additional students.
The new building, located north of Guinan Residence Hall at the intersection of West Alabama Street and Graustark Street, will feature modern dorm-style living spaces, study and collaboration areas, lounge spaces and an outdoor courtyard and chapel.
The project comes as the university prepares for continued enrollment growth, projecting an increase to about 7,000 students by 2030, according to the Houston Business Journal. The $45 million project, financed partly through several large fundraising gifts, is expected to open in fall 2028.
Officials say the expansion is aimed at meeting a rising demand for on-campus housing, as current residence facilities accommodate only about 400 students. Additional housing needs are currently met through partnerships with nearby apartment complexes.
“UST is focusing on student success, which includes a wonderfully rich academic life, a vibrant campus life, and, most importantly, access to on-campus living so students can enjoy every minute of their college experience,” President Dr. Sinda Vanderpool said in the release.
UST partnered with Turner & Townsend Heery as project manager; Cogan, The Lawrence Group and Jackson & Ryan for design; and Harvey Cleary Builders as the general contractor. Stellar Bank is financing the multimillion-dollar development.
