Knoxville, October 21, 2025
News Summary
The University of Tennessee at Knoxville is set to begin a $45.85 million renovation project aimed at enhancing the Presidential Court Building and the Student Union. This initiative is part of a strategy to accommodate a growing student population expected to reach 55,000 by 2030. Planned improvements include an esports complex, multimedia lounge, and new office spaces for student services. The renovations for the Presidential Court Building are projected to be completed by 2027, while upgrades to the Student Union are anticipated by August.
Knoxville
The University of Tennessee at Knoxville is initiating a $45.85 million project aimed at enhancing two significant student spaces on its campus, focusing on the Presidential Court Building and the Student Union. This renovation is part of the university’s strategy to accommodate its growing student population, expected to reach 55,000 students by 2030.
Details of the Renovation
Announced by Vice Chancellor for Student Life, Frank Cuevas, during a presentation at the Knoxville Chamber on October 14, the renovation of the Presidential Court Building will involve extensive internal improvements while preserving the building’s exterior aesthetics. The project includes the creation of:
- An esports complex
- A multimedia lounge
- Multipurpose rooms
- New office spaces for Greek Life, dining, and off-campus student life services
A central aim is to provide a new home for the Center for Basic Needs, which assists students with food, housing, transportation, and health care. The Center currently serves students in the Student Union and provided resources to over 46,000 students last year.
Project Timeline and Budget
The projected cost for the renovations to the Presidential Court Building is approximately $40.5 million. The project is pending approval from the State Building Commission, with construction expected to begin soon and finalize by 2027.
Improvements to the Student Union
The Student Union, which opened in phases from 2015 to 2019, will also undergo significant upgrades. Plans include the addition of a new plaza and entrance, as well as an outdoor amphitheater and food truck park area. These enhancements are estimated to cost $5.35 million, with completion anticipated by next August. These upgrades reflect a responsive approach to the university’s increasing number of students and the demand for more communal spaces.
Growing Enrollment and Future Projects
This semester, the University of Tennessee welcomed its largest freshman class, consisting of 7,143 first-year students. Chancellor Donde Plowman has stressed the importance of maintaining a high quality of campus life during this growth period, emphasizing both the enhancement of existing structures and the introduction of new facilities.
In addition to the renovations, a new Student Success building located next to Hodges Library is under construction, scheduled to open by Fall 2027. This five-story building will replace Melrose Hall, which has been out of service since 2009, and will offer classrooms, lounges, and offices to support student engagement.
Moreover, a Chemistry Building project with a budget of $199 million is also in progress and is slated for completion by 2029. These developments indicate a broader initiative by the university to enhance its academic and support resources.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Presidential Court Building Renovation | Cost: $40.5 million, Completion by 2027 |
| Center for Basic Needs | New home for student services previously at Student Union |
| Student Union Upgrades | Cost: $5.35 million, Completion by next August |
| Student Enrollment | Largest freshman class: 7,143 students |
| Student Success Building | Open by Fall 2027, replaces Melrose Hall |
| Chemistry Building Project | Budget: $199 million, Completion by 2029 |
| Projected Enrollment by 2030 | 55,000 students |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total budget for the renovations at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville?
The total budget for the renovations is $45.85 million.
Which areas are being renovated mainly?
The renovations mainly focus on the Presidential Court Building and the Student Union.
When is the completion date for the renovations?
The renovations for the Presidential Court Building are expected to be completed by 2027.
What new facilities will be included in the renovations?
The additions will include an esports complex, multimedia lounge, multipurpose rooms, and new office spaces for campus services.
How many students did the Center for Basic Needs serve last year?
The Center for Basic Needs served over 46,000 students last year.
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Additional Resources
- Knox News: UT Knoxville Renovations Announcement
- BDC Network: UT Knoxville Student Success Center Construction
- WATE: UT Breaks Ground on New Student Center
- Wikipedia: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
- Google Search: University of Tennessee Knoxville Renovations
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
