Sul Ross State University, a cornerstone of higher education in West Texas, has announced a major $26 million renovation project aimed at expanding its Fine Arts facilities and modernizing Fletcher Hall dormitory. This initiative underscores the university’s commitment to improving campus life and boosting its academic offerings.
Located in the scenic town of Alpine, Sul Ross State University serves as a hub for educational and cultural activities in the region. Known for its robust programs in range management, animal science, and fine arts, the university attracts students from across the state and beyond.
The current project, which is in the schematic design phase, involves significant upgrades to the university’s infrastructure. According to reports by Viviana Sanchez for The Sul Ross Skyline, Banes General Contractors, Inc. has been selected for the construction, with BRW Architects, Inc. providing the architectural expertise.
A substantial part of the budget is allocated to the Fine Arts Facility, which will see the transformation of the old Porter’s building on 5th Street and renovations to the Kokernot Theater. These updates are expected to create a state-of-the-art environment for theater productions and make the facilities more accessible to the public.
“The expansion is designed to meet the current and future needs of our students and to enhance our recruitment efforts within the Fine Arts program,” a university spokesperson explained in an interview with The Sul Ross Skyline.
In addition to the arts facilities, the project includes a $2 million renovation of Fletcher Hall, one of the student housing complexes. Ben Telesca, Vice President of Student Affairs, told The Sul Ross Skyline, “The renovation of Fletcher Hall is essential for accommodating our growing student population.” The planned upgrades include modernizing the bathrooms, replacing old air conditioning units with new systems similar to those found in hotels, and adding new, free-to-use laundry facilities.
Despite these comprehensive updates, Fletcher Hall will continue to offer an affordable housing option for students, contrasting with the pricier Lobo Villages. The dormitory is expected to be ready for occupancy by the Fall semester of 2025.
“This project not only revitalizes key areas of our campus but also aligns with our strategic goals to enhance Sul Ross State University’s status as a premier center for arts and education in West Texas,” added Telesca.
As Sul Ross State University pushes forward with these ambitious renovations, the enhancements are poised to significantly improve the quality of student life and attract more students to its distinguished Fine Arts program, reinforcing the university’s role as a pivotal educational institution in the region.
Texas Reporter 