The Next 40 Acres
Rendering of proposed cap over I-35 at UT
Transforming I-35 from a barrier to a bridge
The Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) proposed rebuild of I-35 through Central Austin presents a unique opportunity for the University of Texas at Austin to connect its campus across a decades-old dividing line.
Athletic facilities and supportive infrastructure currently exist on both sides of the highway; the wall of I-35 that cuts through UT’s campus disincentivizes students, staff, and fans alike from crossing.
Thus the 'Next 40 Acres': A UT cap right in the heart of Austin, spanning the width of the sunken highway, would reconnect the long divided East and West campus facilities. Revitalized land around the cap would flourish with a new Sports & Entertainment District, consolidating present amenities and encouraging new development in this new contiguous space.
Imagine a unified Longhorn Nation
Map showing UT campus east & west of I-35, with notable athletic facilities marked
UT athletic facilities to be unified by a cap
Left to Right: I-35 today, looking west from the East Campus Garage & the same view as a part of the 'Unified Longhorn Nation'