In just a few weeks, thousands of Horned Frogs will return to a campus that looks noticeably different from a year ago as Texas Christian University continues to advance TCU’s strategic plan Lead On: Values in Action, with several of the largest projects constructed within the vision of its Campus Master Plan.

The university recently marked a construction milestone with a ceremonial topping out on July 31, which recognized progress on four new residential communities and a five-story parking garage that will house a new TCU Police Station and Emergency Operations Center. Together, the projects reflect a coordinated effort to expand housing, enhance campus infrastructure and support TCU's continued growth.

A longstanding construction tradition, a topping out ceremony marks a significant milestone in the building process.

"For more than 150 years, TCU has grown with purpose, always keeping students at the center of every decision," Chancellor Daniel W. Pullin said. "These projects reflect our commitment to providing an exceptional residential experience while creating spaces that support the learning and connection that makes TCU unique. Every investment we're making today is intended to serve Horned Frogs for decades to come."

When complete, the housing expansion will add nearly 2,500 student beds across four distinct residential communities designed to support Horned Frogs from their first semester through graduation. The developments will include traditional residence halls, suite-style residences and townhomes that meet students' changing needs throughout their time at TCU. Together, the new communities strengthen TCU's residential campus, creating places where students live, study, build friendships and become part of the Horned Frog community.

The housing expansion is one part of a much broader vision for campus.

Beyond the new residential communities, other projects are reshaping campus in meaningful ways. The comprehensive renovation of Ed Landreth Hall will create a modern creative center for the College of Fine Arts, providing updated teaching, rehearsal and performance spaces while preserving one of TCU's most iconic academic buildings. At The Morado on Berry, TCU's partnership with Endeavor Real Estate Group is creating a mixed-use destination with residential, retail, dining and office space that will strengthen and enliven the connection between campus and the Berry Street district.

The 2024 TCU Campus Master Plan provides a holistic vision for accommodating projected growth over the next decade while reimagining how the campus is integrated into its Fort Worth context. Developed in alignment with the University's strategic plan, Lead On: Values in Action, the Campus Master Plan serves as the framework guiding how those investments support TCU's long-term priorities.

"As students begin a new chapter each fall, the campus becomes part of that story," said Kathy Cavins-Tull, vice chancellor for student affairs. "Where students live influences the friendships they build, the mentors they meet and the sense of belonging they develop. These new residential communities were designed to foster those connections and create places where students can thrive during their time as a Horned Frog."

Today’s construction projects are laying the foundation for tomorrow’s Horned Frog experience by creating spaces where students will build friendships, celebrate traditions, prepare for careers and make TCU their home.