Construction Updates
September 24, 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!
Join us and help shape the future of Bison Hill for generations to come. Support the Shape the Future campaign today.
Shawnee Hall Prepares for Historic Grand Opening Oct. 24 at 10 a.m.
Landscape and irrigation installation is currently underway and will be completed in early October in time for The Weekend and the grand opening.
The certificate of occupancy for the third floor has been received, and the building is now approved for full occupancy.
Minor finishing touches and corrections on various floors will continue during the next several weeks in preparation for the official grand opening at 10 a.m. on Oct. 24 in the Oval. You won’t want to miss this exciting event!
Read more about the Shawnee Hall Grand Opening.
Raley Chapel Site Work Set to Begin
As part of the Shape the Future Campaign, site work around Raley Chapel will begin soon to repair tornado damage and improve long-term water management. The project includes regrading the grounds and creating new retention and detention ponds to better control water flow from north to south through the area. These improvements will protect campus facilities, enhance safety, and create a more beautiful and functional destination space at the heart of Bison Hill.
Construction fencing will be installed beginning Oct. 1, enclosing the construction area from University Street to the MacArthur Street parking lot and from Raley Drive to the Geiger Center. The map we provided in the previous construction update is above and here is a link to the video from President Thomas in case you missed it.
In preparation for the new fencing and construction, new sidewalks have been poured, existing sidewalks have been repaired, and new ADA ramps and crosswalks have been added to maintain safe pedestrian circulation.
Thurmond Hall Progresses on Schedule
On the second floor, sheetrock installation is complete and has been bedded, taped and textured. Mechanical, electrical and plumbing work is ongoing, with pipe, ductwork and hydronic piping currently being installed. Fire suppression system installation is also underway.
On the third floor, electrical rough-in for lighting continues. Sheetrock, bedding, taping and texturing will follow, with systems rough-in taking place at the same time.
The project is scheduled for completion near the end of the fall semester, with a grand opening planned for the spring.
Tree Planting Continues
With cooler temperatures returning, Facilities Services staff will resume planting trees in conjunction with several landscape projects this fall.
This long-running project aims to increase diversity within OBU’s campus arboretum and enrich the transitional spaces between buildings.
Solar Project Installations Scheduled
The solar panel installation project is scheduled to begin this fall. Plans are currently under review by OBU Administration and Facilities Services personnel.
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 together to shape the future of OBU! Stay tuned for more updates as these projects progress.