University of Houston board approves expedited campus lighting enhancement project

The University of Houston System Board of Regents has given the green light to accelerate Phase Two of the Campus Lighting and Security Enhancement Project, a venture valued at $18 million. This decision is expected to significantly boost ongoing efforts to enhance campus safety, with key student housing lots slated for completion by November 2025 and additional parking areas by December 2025.

"Safety is a top priority at the University of Houston, and we are committed to making tangible improvements that enhance the well-being of our students," stated Raymond Bartlett, senior vice president for administration and finance. "With this accelerated timeline, we are ensuring that critical security upgrades, including additional lighting, cameras and emergency call stations, are implemented as swiftly as possible."

The UH System Board's approval includes an increase in contract authority to facilitate immediate continuation of enhancements without waiting for a new procurement process. The revised timeline for Phase Two targets specific areas: Priority Lots (Student Housing) — Lots 3A, 3B, 4A, 6A are estimated for completion by November 2025; Additional Lots — Lots 12A, 15H, 16B/C/D/E/F, and 21A/B are expected to be finished by December 2025.

Upon full completion of the project aimed at boosting campus safety measures, more than 400 new lighting assets will be added along with 195 surveillance cameras and 42 emergency call stations. The initial phases received $18 million funding. Phase One is nearing its end focusing on residential housing and perimeter parking zones. With the newly approved acceleration plan in place for Phase Two upgrades across both residential districts and broader campus areas.

"By fast-tracking Phase Two," Bartlett noted further steps being taken towards prioritizing key areas while ensuring enhanced security reaches all members within their community quickly. He emphasized how important it was creating safer environments throughout university grounds through such initiatives.

In addition there will be future developments under Centennial Master Plan addressing interior enhancements alongside construction projects like Centennial Plaza redesigning University Drive.