Texas Christian University embarks on expansive residence hall project

Fort Worth, Texas - Texas Christian University (TCU) in Fort Worth has begun construction on two modern residence halls, a dining facility, and a shared common space, Dallas Metro News reported. These developments aim to enhance the student living experience.

The new complex is located at the intersection of Lubbock and Louden Streets, near the southeast boundary of the campus, behind the Neely School of Business. The dining hall is strategically placed between the residential sections, connecting to both the common space and the business school. The residence halls will feature a pod-style design, where a group of rooms surround a community hub with a shared restroom. This housing initiative will cater to 292 students, while the dining facility will have seating for 550 individuals.

The university emphasizes on-campus living for its students. Freshmen and sophomores are required to stay within the campus. TCU Chancellor Victor Boschini commented to TCU 360, “I can show you 40 academic studies that show the longer you live on campus, the better experience you have, the better grades you get, everything is better. Opening these two new residence halls will help us because we will have a bunch more space that we don’t have now.”

TCU has invested in infrastructure projects recently. One significant project is the $20 million renovation of Sadler Hall, home to the John V. Roach Honors College. Additionally, in 2022, TCU laid the foundation for the Burnett School of Medicine’s new campus, which has a budget of $62 million. The board of trustees also approved a $40 million expansion of the athletics facilities, adding 30,000 square feet to the current space.

Over the past decade, TCU’s student population has grown by 24%. The last academic year saw the university's largest freshman class, leading to increased demand for on-campus housing. Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Kathy Cavins-Tull noted in October, “Given our continued growth, it is time for us to add housing that further supports our connection culture and high student retention rates. With each new building, we have the exciting opportunity to consider location, design and common spaces that support student connectivity, health and wellness.”

Craig Allen, executive director for housing and residence life, shared his vision for the east side of the campus. “The east campus that people know today will not be the same in five, six, eight years. This is going to help tie the campus together in a cool way for the student experience.” He also mentioned the potential for further housing expansions in the future.

Lastly, TCU was ranked sixth in the 2024 Best Colleges in Texas.

Credit: Dallas Metro News, TCU 360