3 developments coming to the University of Alabama, including the New Tutwiler

Did you know that the University of Alabama completes around 200 construction projects each year, ranging in size from $10,000 to $100,000,000? Keep reading to learn more about three projects, representing a total investment of $233,029,280, at the University of Alabama!

1. Peter Bryce Main Renovation

• Project Cost: $83,750,000.00
• Project Address: 201 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
• Contractor/Builder: Turner Batson Architects

The University of Alabama is working on a massive renovation of the historic Bryce State Mental Hospital building, which once housed the Alabama State Hospital for the Insane. First opened in 1861, the building was originally home to a state-run, inpatient psychiatric facility. After the Bryce Hospital moved to a new facility in Tuscaloosa, the University of Alabama purchased the historic building with big plans.

Now, the building is getting a new lease on life. The University of Alabama is incorporating the historic building into their new, upcoming Performing Arts Academic Center. Although the east wing was demolished in August due to structural issues, the remaining restored section of the historic building will eventually house the Welcome Center for the Performing Arts Academic Center.

According to the University of Alabama, the renovations are expected to be complete by 2023 or 2024.

2. New Tutwiler Residence Hall

• Project Cost: $144,900,659.00
• Project Address: Northeast corner of 10th Avenue and 12th Street
• Contractor/Builder: Turner Batson Architects

Over the years, countless female students at the University of Alabama have resided at all-girls Tutwiler Residence Hall. Named for Julia Tutwiler, a proponent of education and prison reform in Alabama, the first Tutwiler Residence Hall was built in 1914. In 1968, a new Tutwiler—commonly known as “Tut”—rose to take its place. Now, a third Tutwiler Residence Hall is under construction for UA.

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Once complete, the New Tutwiler Residence Hall will be able to house over 1,200 freshman female students. Inside the New Tutwiler, students will have:

• Two-person bedrooms, with private bathrooms in each room.
• Lounges and community/traditional-style residence hall spaces.
• On-site fitness amenities.
• A multi-purpose room that will serve as a storm shelter and a meeting place for various student groups.
• And much more!

The beloved Julia’s Market will be relocated from the old Tutwiler to the New Tutwiler Residence Hall. According to the University of Alabama, the New Tutwiler Residence Hall is scheduled to open in Fall 2022.

3. Superintendent’s House Restoration

• Project Cost: $4,378,621.00
• Project Address: 315 Bryce Lawn Drive, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
• Contractor/Builder: UA Design Team, J.T. Harrison Construction Co., Inc.

Constructed circle 1913, this historic building was originally part of the Bryce State Mental Hospital campus. Known as the Superintendent’s House (or the Bryce Mansion), this structure is located behind the Bryce Main building along Bryce Lawn Drive.

Now, the University of Alabama is working to restore the historic Superintendent’s House for multiple purposes. Once complete, the renovated building will serve as a special event space, as well as lodging for guests of the University. Part of the renovation includes a new patio on the side of the building, perfect for hosting outdoor events.

Which project are you most excited to see at the University of Alabama? Tag us @thebamabuzz to let us know!