UT Seeks Private Developers for Multipurpose Arena, Student-Athlete Housing – UT Austin News

AUSTIN, Texas — The University of Texas at Austin has issued a request for proposal (RFP) to seek private developer(s) to plan, design, construct, equip, finance and operate a small multipurpose public arena to serve as the competition home for the Longhorns’ four-time National Champion Women’s Volleyball and an adjacent student-athlete housing facility, with minimal financial outlay from the University. The project will encompass approximately 4 acres in the Athletics and Entertainment District of UT’s main campus, located north of East MLK Jr. Boulevard between Robert Dedman Drive and Interstate 35.

“It is important for us to be strategic about how we use our space and how our students and visitors engage with our campus,” said UT President Jim Davis. “This is a unique development that will enhance the University’s athletics facilities and housing portfolio and benefit students, Longhorn fans and our city for years to come. I am grateful to our Board of Regents for their support for our vision.”

The arena aims to seat approximately 6,000 fans, with the flexibility to expand seating for concerts, shows and University events that complement the adjacent Moody Center. The student-athlete housing facility is envisioned to provide a best-in-class housing experience for the University’s student-athletes that reflects UT’s commitment to recruiting and developing premier talent. Additionally, it could provide ground-level retail opportunities that will enhance the campus, community, and visitors’ experience.

“This is a critical step for the future of Texas Volleyball and our student-athletes’ housing experience,” said Athletics Director Chris Del Conte. “It is about creating an experience that our student-athletes, coaches and passionate fans will be proud of in the heart of a district built for elite talent and entertainment.”

The RFP seeks private developers who have successfully developed and operated best-in-class, multipurpose public arenas, student housing and retail facilities, and who have the financial capability to contribute all or a substantial portion of the cost to develop, build and operate the new facilities. Under the proposed public-private collaboration, UT would own both the arena and student-athlete housing properties, and an outside entity would operate them.

UT issued the RFP Dec. 10 after the UT System Board of Regents authorized it last month. The 2033 Higher Education Development Foundation will lead the RFP process, and developer(s) will have the option to submit proposals for both or each facility by Feb. 6. The specific timeline and financial arrangement between the University and developer(s) will be determined through negotiations before any agreement is reached.