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OBU—Oklahoma Baptist UniversityShape the Future

Construction Updates

September 5, 2025

Here’s the latest on OBU’s ongoing construction projects and campus enhancements, including updates for Shawnee Hall, Raley Chapel, Thurmond Hall, Agee Residence Center, tree planting, and the solar panel installation project. Thanks again to OBU Project Manager Ryan Grider for providing these updates!

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Shawnee Hall

Exterior work is underway, with site grading currently taking place. Due to soil compaction from rain and construction equipment over the past two years, the ground around the building is being broken up and rototilled to prepare for landscaping, irrigation, and sod installation in late September or early October. All sidewalks have now been installed.

Inside, the third floor has reached substantial completion. The lecture theatre’s seating is finished, and artwork and common area furniture are being installed throughout the building.

While faculty and staff members currently occupy the Shawnee Hall, the building is only open to those officed in that location. Access into the building is only from the west side.

Lecture Theatre — Shawnee Hall, 3rd Floor
Bison Artwork Installation — Shawnee Hall, 2nd Floor

Raley Chapel

Meetings to coordinate site access and logistics have been ongoing, with OBU administration and facilities personnel actively reviewing grounds construction documents alongside Lingo Construction and Studio Architecture.

Following the April 2023 tornado, repairs to the Raley Chapel grounds will require extensive site work, including regrading and the addition of new water features to improve water flow from north to south. These necessary repairs also create a unique opportunity to reimagine this central part of campus, transforming it into a destination space that enhances the beauty of Bison Hill and contributes to a world-class student experience. This transformative work is being made possible through the Shape the Future Campaign.

In preparation for site work, fencing will begin to go up Oct. 1 around a large area surrounding Raley Chapel, extending from University Street to the MacArthur Street parking lot and from Raley Drive to the Geiger Center. Prior to fence construction, work will be completed to improve pedestrian walkways along University Street by adding new ADA ramps, new and improved sidewalks, and additional crosswalks. Please see the map below for more information. Please watch this video with OBU President Dr. Heath A. Thomas, who shares more about this exciting step forward.

Campus Access Map

Thurmond Hall

Interior framing on the second and third floors is now complete. Heat and air, electrical, plumbing, and fire suppression work are also underway. Once MEP rough-in is finished, sheetrock installation will be completed, marking the phase where visible progress comes together quickly.

Adjustments to the first floor for lab and shop equipment have also been completed, and final walkthroughs and inspections from OBU personnel are underway. The second and third floor project remains on schedule to be completed at the end of the fall semester.

The first floor is the only floor currently open to the public and is only accessible from the south entrances. The second and third floors and the east, north, and west exteriors are active construction sites, restricted to Lingo Construction personnel and OBU facilities staff.

Construction Progress — Thurmond Hall, 2nd Floor

Agee Residence Center

The new chiller system for Agee Residence Center has been installed, and construction of the enclosure for the system is now underway.

Tree Plantings

Due to high summer temperatures, all tree planting and landscape projects are on hold until early fall to ensure the best chance of survivability.

Rooftop Solar Panel Installation

The solar panel installation project is currently under FAA review. Buildings slated to receive solar panels include:

  • RAWC
  • Noble Complex
  • Football Laundry and Storage Facility
  • Coats Baseball and Softball
  • Facilities Services Warehouse
  • Village Apartments
  • Kemp Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
  • Science Annex

Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm as we work to shape the future of OBU! Stay tuned for more updates as these projects progress.