San Marcos, Texas, December 17, 2025
Texas State University in San Marcos has announced a significant $280 million expansion project to meet its increasing enrollment, which has reached nearly 45,000 students. The construction will feature two 10-story residential towers and a dining hall, adding 1,504 beds to the campus. The project aims to enhance student living conditions and will begin in February 2026, with completion expected by February 2027.
San Marcos, Texas – Texas State University Announces $280 Million Housing Expansion
San Marcos, Texas – Texas State University has unveiled plans for a $280 million expansion to accommodate its record-breaking enrollment. The project includes two 10-story residential towers and a 563-seat dining hall, collectively adding 1,504 beds to the campus housing capacity. Construction is set to commence in February 2026, with completion anticipated by February 2027.
Project Details
The Hilltop Housing Phase II complex will be situated between existing residential areas, the LBJ Student Center, Alkek Library, and key academic buildings. Designed to foster a vibrant student community, the complex will feature modern amenities, study spaces, and a central dining hub. The two towers will encircle a large central courtyard, enhancing student engagement and success.
Enrollment Growth
This expansion responds to Texas State University’s significant enrollment surge, which reached 44,596 students this fall—a nearly 10% increase from the previous year. Freshman enrollment rose to 9,329 students, and graduate student numbers increased by 25.5% to 5,215. Total new student enrollment, including transfers, topped 14,355, marking a 16.4% rise over 2024. These figures reflect the university’s strategic initiatives to expand access, including partnerships with community colleges and the establishment of a new campus in Querétaro, Mexico.
Broader Campus Developments
The housing expansion is part of a broader $450 million building initiative at Texas State University, encompassing 173 construction projects. Notably, Canyon Hall, a new residence hall with 1,000 beds, is under construction and scheduled to open in fall 2025. Additionally, a new 168,000-square-foot STEM classroom building is set to open in fall 2026, aiming to foster innovation and collaboration in STEM disciplines. These developments underscore the university’s commitment to enhancing student housing and academic opportunities in response to growing enrollment.
Community Impact
The Hilltop Housing Phase II project is expected to significantly improve student living conditions and contribute to the local economy. By providing modern housing and dining facilities, the university aims to enhance the overall student experience and support its expanding academic community.
About Texas State University
Texas State University, located in San Marcos, Texas, is a comprehensive public university known for its diverse academic programs and commitment to student success. The university continues to invest in infrastructure and resources to meet the evolving needs of its growing student population.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Hilltop Housing Phase II project?
The Hilltop Housing Phase II project is a $280 million expansion at Texas State University, featuring two 10-story residential towers and a 563-seat dining hall, adding 1,504 beds to campus housing.
When will construction begin and end?
Construction is scheduled to begin in February 2026 and is expected to be completed by February 2027.
How does this project address enrollment growth?
This expansion responds to Texas State University’s record-breaking enrollment, which reached 44,596 students this fall—a nearly 10% increase from the previous year—by providing additional housing and dining facilities to accommodate the growing student population.
What other developments are planned at Texas State University?
In addition to the housing expansion, Texas State University is undertaking a $450 million building initiative, including Canyon Hall, a new residence hall with 1,000 beds opening in fall 2025, and a new 168,000-square-foot STEM classroom building set to open in fall 2026.
How will the community benefit from this project?
The project is expected to enhance student living conditions and contribute to the local economy by providing modern housing and dining facilities, thereby supporting the university’s expanding academic community.
Key Features of the Hilltop Housing Phase II Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $280 million |
| Residential Capacity | 1,504 beds |
| Dining Facility | 563-seat dining hall |
| Construction Timeline | February 2026 – February 2027 |
| Location | Between existing residential complexes, LBJ Student Center, Alkek Library, and key academic buildings |
| Amenities | Modern housing, study spaces, central dining hub, central courtyard |
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