Tarleton Gets $90M for New Health Sciences Building, Expansion of Fort Worth Campus

Office of the President, Tarleton State University Presidential Seal

Senate Bill 52, passed by both chambers of the Legislature just after midnight Monday, represents a big win for Tarleton State University and The Texas A&M University System. The bill is awaiting final approval from the Governor.

The Tuition Revenue Bond bill authorizes $3.3 billion for higher education projects statewide, with almost $728 million for A&M System developments. Tarleton receives $65 million to construct and outfit a new College of Health Sciences and Human Services building in Stephenville and $25 million to expand its Fort Worth campus.

Gov. Greg Abbott on Friday asked lawmakers to consider legislation to improve higher education. House Bill 159, authored by Rep. DeWayne Burns (District 58), provided the framework for SB 52 and added funding for Tarleton as well as 70 other construction projects for post-secondary institutions.

“We are profoundly grateful for the leadership of Representative Burns, the support of Representative Shelby Slawson and all our Tarleton advocates in the Legislature,” said university President James Hurley. “With their help and the backing of Chancellor John Sharp and the A&M System Board of Regents, we’re looking past the 21st century at state-of-the art facilities that invigorate teaching, research and discovery.”

Rep. Burns: “It’s no secret that I care deeply about the Tarleton State University family. I also care about the future of Texas and doing what’s in the best interest of our communities. This funding is about creating educational opportunity and preparing the workforce that will address current and future healthcare needs across our state.”

In addition to Senate Bill 52, the Legislature approved $20 million as part of SB 8 to support at-risk students attending comprehensive regional universities, including 11 A&M System schools.

Dr. James Hurley
President
Tarleton State University
Box T-0001
Stephenville, Texas 76402