Austin, Texas, January 22, 2026
The McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin is set to start the Mulva Hall project, a 17-story building designed to enhance academic programs and local business collaboration. Scheduled for construction in November 2024, this $425 million project aims to improve educational facilities and foster economic growth in the Austin area. The project emphasizes modern architecture with flexible spaces to encourage collaboration among students and faculty. It is a pivotal step in strengthening the university’s connection with the Texas business community.
McCombs School of Business Expands with Downtown Legacy Project
San Antonio, Texas – The McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin is set to undertake a significant downtown development aimed at elevating its educational infrastructure and engagement within the Austin area. This project, dubbed Mulva Hall, represents a crucial step in the school’s ongoing efforts to enhance its facilities while supporting local economic growth through educational excellence and innovation.
As a hub of entrepreneurial activity and business acumen, the McCombs School’s expansion aligns with the state’s tradition of fostering small businesses and reducing regulatory barriers. This strategic development is poised to not only bolster the academic experience for students but also strengthen the connection between the university and the thriving business community in Texas.
Project Overview
Mulva Hall will rise as a 17-story academic building designed specifically to support the McCombs undergraduate programs, a range of specialized master’s programs, and six academic departments. The modern architecture incorporates flexible and reconfigurable spaces meant to promote collaboration among students and faculty, enhancing teaching, research, and corporate partnerships. Expected features of the building include offices, classrooms, dedicated student collaborative spaces, event areas, a career center, and underground parking accommodating approximately 164 vehicles. The building will take root on land currently occupied by the Dobie Parking Garage and nearby surface parking lots, bounded by West 20th Street, University Avenue, West 21st Street, and Whitis Avenue.
Approval and Funding
The project gained approval from the University of Texas System Board of Regents in November 2024, which marked a pivotal moment in moving forward with transformation initiatives. The overall project cost amounts to $425 million, with funding sources comprised of $225 million from RFS Bond Proceeds, $150 million through generous gifts, and $50 million from designated funds. Additionally, the board has authorized design development plans for the initial stage, contributing $25 million from designated funds.
Construction Timeline
Construction of Mulva Hall is set to commence in November 2024, with substantial completion anticipated by May 2028 and final completion expected in June 2028. This timeline highlights the commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities by the targeted completion date, aligning with the McCombs School of Business Strategic Master Plan Update initiated in 2011.
Background Context
Mulva Hall’s development is part of the broader strategy by the McCombs School to consolidate its educational offerings and create a cohesive academic environment. This merger of professional programs is intended to foster increased collaboration, drive innovation, and nurture the business community at the University of Texas at Austin, thereby contributing to the economic dynamism of the region.
Conclusion
The Mulva Hall project stands as a testament to the commitment of the McCombs School of Business to adapt and thrive in an increasingly competitive educational landscape. By investing in advanced facilities and promoting collaborative environments, the school is not just enhancing student experiences but also reinforcing its role as a vital player in stimulating local economic growth. As the larger San Antonio and Austin areas continue to flourish, supporting initiatives like this can help maintain a robust environment for Texas entrepreneurs and small businesses alike.
Engaging with local businesses and supporting educational institutions will ensure that San Antonio remains a vibrant economic hub. Stay tuned for further developments on this exciting initiative!
- What is Mulva Hall?
- Mulva Hall is a 17-story academic building designed to house the McCombs undergraduate programs, specialized master’s programs, and six academic departments, featuring flexible and reconfigurable spaces to enhance collaboration and innovation.
- When was the project approved?
- The University of Texas System Board of Regents approved the Mulva Hall project in November 2024.
- What is the construction timeline?
- Construction is scheduled to commence in November 2024, with substantial completion expected by May 2028 and final completion by June 2028.
- What is the total project cost?
- The total project cost for Mulva Hall is $425 million, funded by $225 million from RFS Bond Proceeds, $150 million from gifts, and $50 million from designated funds.
- Where will Mulva Hall be located?
- Mulva Hall will be located on a site currently occupied by the Dobie Parking Garage and adjacent surface parking lots bounded by West 20th Street, University Avenue, West 21st Street, and Whitis Avenue.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Mulva Hall |
| Location | University of Texas at Austin campus, Austin, Texas |
| Building Height | 17 stories |
| Total Project Cost | $425 million |
| Funding Sources | $225 million from RFS Bond Proceeds, $150 million from gifts, $50 million from designated funds |
| Construction Timeline | Commencement in November 2024, substantial completion by May 2028, final completion by June 2028 |
| Amenities | Offices, classrooms, student collaborative spaces, faculty and administrative offices, event spaces, career center, underground parking with approximately 164 spaces |
| Location Details | Site currently occupied by the Dobie Parking Garage and adjacent surface parking lots bounded by West 20th Street, University Avenue, West 21st Street, and Whitis Avenue |
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