Construction of UTA West is under way and progressing on schedule toward a planned fall 2028 opening.
Work is focused on foundational construction, parking infrastructure and entry signage at the site near the intersection of Interstate 20 and Interstate 30 in the Aledo and Willow Park area of Parker County. Much of the onsite work is being completed by local contractors, supporting economic activity and job creation in the surrounding community.
General contractor Hensel Phelps is leading construction in close coordination with UTA's Facilities Management team. The project is managed by Josh Barth, project manager for Hensel Phelps, who brings extensive experience working with UT System institutions on major capital projects.
The project is being delivered through a design-build model, pairing Hensel Phelps with design partner HKS. The integrated approach allows design and construction activities to progress simultaneously.
"Being a part of the first building on the new campus is an exciting opportunity," Barth said. "As this project is design-build, working through the design process with our design partner HKS and the UTA team has been a great experience and provided the opportunity to assist in setting this project up for success."
Earthwork and site preparation are ongoing, with the building foundation and retaining walls beginning to take shape.
Phase two construction began in March, which includes the $149,500,000 three-level, 150,000-sq.-ft. main building that is set to hold all the university's operations in the beginning, according to The Shorthorn.
Construction began in December 2025 with the north parking lot, an entryway off Interstate 30 and bringing infrastructure up to near the building, according to The Shorthorn.
The overall campus spans 51 acres and parking, outdoor spaces and the building will encompass 9 acres.
UTA West is located along a high-visibility corridor in eastern Parker County and is intended to expand access to higher education for residents in the region.
The University of Texas at Arlingtonâ¯is a growing public research university in the heart of Dallas-Fort Worth. With a student body of more than 42,700, UTA is the second-largest institution in theâ¯University of Texas System, offering more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
The UT System Board of Regents approved a land buy for UTA West in 2024, with project planning starting two years before that.
