San Antonio, Texas, January 21, 2026
Texas State University in San Marcos is initiating a $280 million project named Hilltop Phase II, which involves constructing two 10-story dormitory towers. This development will provide 1,504 student beds and a dining hall for 563 students, addressing the growing demand for housing due to record enrollment. Construction begins in February 2026, with completion anticipated by February 2027, marking a significant step in accommodating the expanding student population.
San Antonio, Texas – Texas State University Expands Campus with New Dormitory Towers
Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, is embarking on a significant expansion to accommodate its record-breaking enrollment. The university has initiated a $280 million project to construct two 10-story dormitory towers, collectively known as Hilltop Phase II, which will provide 1,504 student beds and a 563-seat dining hall. Construction is slated to begin in February 2026, with completion expected by February 2027. This development aims to address the longstanding shortage of student housing and enhance campus facilities for the growing student population.
Project Details
The Hilltop Phase II project includes:
- Two 10-story dormitory towers
- 1,504 student beds
- 563-seat dining hall
Demolition of the existing site began in June 2025, and construction is now set to commence in February 2026. The project is expected to be completed by February 2027, aligning with the university’s commitment to accommodating a record-breaking student population.
Background Context
Texas State University has experienced significant growth in recent years, leading to increased demand for student housing. The Hilltop Phase II project is part of a broader initiative to expand campus facilities and infrastructure to support the university’s expanding student body. This development follows the university’s previous expansion efforts, including the construction of Canyon Hall, a new residence hall with 1,000 beds, and the STEM classroom building, both scheduled to open in fall 2025.
Related Developments in Texas Higher Education
Other Texas universities are also undertaking significant expansion projects to meet growing enrollment and enhance campus facilities:
- The University of Texas at Austin is constructing Mulva Hall, a 17-story undergraduate business school building, scheduled to open in Fall 2028. The $425 million project aims to provide state-of-the-art facilities for business education.
- Texas A&M University is building the Aplin Center, a $250 million facility named after Buc-ee’s CEO Arch Aplin III. The center will serve as a visitor hub and include lab spaces for hospitality, retail, and food science programs. Construction is expected to begin in September 2025, with completion in February 2028.
- The University of Texas at San Antonio is advancing five significant facility projects, including the San Pedro II building, a $130 million, 180,000-square-foot academic facility scheduled to open in spring 2026.
Conclusion
Texas State University’s Hilltop Phase II project represents a substantial investment in student housing and campus facilities, reflecting the university’s commitment to supporting its growing student population. The project is part of a broader trend of expansion and development among Texas higher education institutions to meet increasing enrollment and enhance educational opportunities.
FAQ
What is the Hilltop Phase II project at Texas State University?
The Hilltop Phase II project is a $280 million development at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, consisting of two 10-story dormitory towers that will provide 1,504 student beds and a 563-seat dining hall. Construction is set to begin in February 2026, with completion expected by February 2027.
Why is Texas State University undertaking this expansion?
The expansion is in response to record-breaking enrollment at the university, leading to increased demand for student housing. The Hilltop Phase II project aims to address the longstanding shortage of student housing and enhance campus facilities for the growing student population.
What other universities in Texas are undertaking similar expansion projects?
Other Texas universities undertaking significant expansion projects include:
- The University of Texas at Austin is constructing Mulva Hall, a 17-story undergraduate business school building, scheduled to open in Fall 2028.
- Texas A&M University is building the Aplin Center, a $250 million facility named after Buc-ee’s CEO Arch Aplin III, expected to open in February 2028.
- The University of Texas at San Antonio is advancing five significant facility projects, including the San Pedro II building, a $130 million, 180,000-square-foot academic facility scheduled to open in spring 2026.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Hilltop Phase II |
| Location | Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas |
| Project Cost | $280 million |
| Components | Two 10-story dormitory towers, 1,504 student beds, 563-seat dining hall |
| Construction Start | February 2026 |
| Completion Date | February 2027 |
| Purpose | Address student housing shortage, enhance campus facilities |
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