Questions/Answers
Current Trinity River Construction
What happens to the original proposed campus, including the current construction?
We will complete the building construction on the south side of the river. We will no longer build on the north side of the river; therefore we will not construct the pedestrian bridge. We no longer need this site north of the river because the RadioShack Corporation facilities are such a better fit.
What happens to the sunken plaza?
We will evaluate what, if anything, is needed at that location. If any of TCC’s property is deemed excess property not directly benefiting our mission, the board will consider disposition of that property.
What are you going to do with the current construction project?
We will complete the construction on the first set of buildings south of the river. Planned completion is within the next two years and the facilities will likely house our administration, distance education services (which currently generates 13,000 enrollments), continuing education programming, and a conference center.
If you don’t construct the sunken plaza, where will the “front door" be to the new facility south of the river?
It will be on the east side of the facility and entrance will be from the planned parking lots.
How will students and the general public be able to access the bluff and the planned Streams and Valleys trail system?
Our current plans make this possible and we see no reason to change them.
With this decision to build only south of the Trinity River, was it necessary to clear the bluff?
It was always considered that this facility would open the view of the river and it still will. Therefore, yes, it was necessary to adjust the bluff.
Why did you build this facility prior to receiving Corps of Engineers approval?
The early construction south of the river did not engage the levees or the river; therefore, no approval was required from the Corps of Engineers. However, we were in frequent conversations with them about our entire project. Based on these conversations we believe we would have obtained a permit to build across the river when it was time to build the north part of the campus.
How much will you spend to complete the facilities south of the river?
We have spent $77 million on the entire project. The expected total expenditures on the entire project, when completed, will be $170 million.
How much will the facility south of the river cost per square foot?
For the construction of the building, it is approximately $281 per square foot. That is reasonable based on national figures.
Will you be using the property you condemned?
Yes. We anticipate building and parking facilities for distance learning, continuing education classes and district administration.
What will be the future of the historical TXU building that you purchased?
We plan to keep the building as it is. We are exploring the cost of protecting it from any further environmental degradation.
What will you do with the property you own on the north side of the river that was to be used in your original plan?
If any of TCC’s property is deemed excess property not directly benefiting our mission, the board will consider disposition of that property.
Have you notified your construction team of this change?
Yes, we have and we will continue discussions with them on this project and other TCC projects.
Haven’t you just abandoned the Trinity River Vision?
Absolutely not. We are expanding our presence in the Trinity River area.
Where will people visiting and working at the facility south of the river park?
They will park in surface lots east of the building as planned.
