The University of Houston System Board of Regents has approved the acceleration of Phase Two of the $18 million Campus Lighting and Security Enhancement Project. This expedited approach will significantly advance the University’s ongoing efforts to improve campus safety, with priority student housing lots scheduled for completion by November 2025 and additional parking lots 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,” said 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.”
Expedited Phase Two Timeline
The UH System Board approved an increase in contract authority to allow for the immediate continuation of lighting and security enhancements. This decision enables the University to utilize its current contractor to expedite work, rather than delaying the project for a separate procurement process.
The updated timeline for Phase Two includes:
Priority Lots (Student Housing):
- Lots 3A, 3B, 4A, 6A – Estimated completion: November 2025
Additional Lots:
- Lots 12A, 15H, 16B/C/D/E/F, 21A/B – Estimated completion: December 2025
Campuswide Security Enhancements
The Campus Lighting and Security Enhancement Project is aimed at increasing safety across campus. Upon full completion, the initiative will add:
- 400+ new lighting assets
- 195 surveillance cameras
- 42 emergency call stations and security kiosks
$18 million was dedicated to the first two phases. Phase One, which focused on residential housing and perimeter parking areas, is nearing completion. With the newly approved acceleration, Phase Two will not only upgrade four additional lots in the residential district but also nine additional lots across campus. As part of the safety assessment, parking areas have been analyzed to determine the quantity and types of new lighting required for uniform output throughout the lots, including LED lighting conversion and improved lumens per square foot for safety.
“By fast-tracking Phase Two, we are addressing priority areas of campus and reinforcing our commitment to safety and ensuring that our campus community benefits from enhanced security measures as soon as possible,” Bartlett added. “This project is a significant step in creating a safe environment for all.”
Future Developments and Centennial Master Plan
In addition to the Campus Lighting and Security Enhancement Project, further lighting upgrades in the final phase will coincide with the broader campus transformation efforts outlined in the Centennial Master Plan. The plan addresses interior campus enhancements, including construction of Centennial Plaza and a redesign of University Drive.