The University of Texas at Austin, through the 2033 Higher Education Development Foundation, has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for a new multipurpose public arena and adjacent student-athlete housing development within its Athletics and Entertainment District.
The proposed project will span approximately four acres on UT’s main campus south of the Moody Center. The development will include an arena designed to serve as the competition home for the Longhorns Women’s Volleyball program, along with a student-athlete housing facility and integrated ground-floor retail.
The arena is planned to seat approximately 6,000 fans for volleyball, with the ability to accommodate up to 6,500 attendees for concerts and other University or community events. The RFP emphasizes that the venue should complement, rather than compete with, the adjacent Moody Center and host events appropriate for a smaller-scale setting.
The student housing component is envisioned to accommodate approximately 300 first-and second-year student-athletes in furnished apartment-style units. The facility would include limited shared amenities and approximately 10,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space along MLK Jr. Blvd. intended to enhance the campus and district environment.
UT President Jim Davis said the project presents an opportunity to strengthen the University’s athletics infrastructure while expanding its housing portfolio. According to the RFP, both the arena and housing facilities would be University-owned upon completion, with private developers responsible for delivery and operations under long-term agreements. The RFP seeks experienced private developers capable of designing, building, financing, operating and maintaining either or both project components.
The RFP was released in December following authorization by the UT System Board of Regents. The 2033 Higher Education Development Foundation will lead the procurement process, and developers may submit proposals for one or both components by Feb. 6. Final timelines and financial arrangements will be established through negotiations prior to execution of definitive agreements.
Photo courtesy of the University of Texas at Austin
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