The University of Texas System Board of Regents has given the green light for UTA West, marking an exciting step for the University of Texas at Arlington. This new campus, located in far west Fort Worth, is set to open for its first class in fall 2028. Construction can now begin following the approval of funding for the first building.
Chancellor John M. Zerwas emphasized the significance of this investment, stating it aims to boost opportunities and economic growth in Texas. UTA West is not just a campus; it’s a chance to meet the growing workforce needs in North Texas.
Covering 51 acres, the campus sits near the Walsh Ranch development, adjacent to key highways. This location is strategic given the rapid population growth in the area. From 2020 to 2024, Parker County’s population surged by 19.4%, making it one of the fastest-growing regions in Texas. Fort Worth itself is among the nation’s top-growing cities.
President Jennifer Cowley expressed her gratitude for the Board of Regents’ support, highlighting that UTA West will play a vital role in providing quality educational programs that match community needs. The economic impact from this venture is expected to exceed $200 million annually in its first year.
This investment also builds on UTA’s long-standing relationship with Fort Worth. The UTA Research Institute, established in 1986, continues to contribute to the local economy by conducting vital research that draws around $16 million each year. Programs focus on advanced technologies, including automation and biomedical advancements.
As part of its expansion, UTA has opened multiple facilities in Fort Worth, including the Fort Worth Center in 2007, aimed at connecting education with career growth. The UTA Institute of Urban Studies, launched in 2023, further extends support to local governments and nonprofits.
Interestingly, recent surveys indicate that community interest in UTA West is high, with many residents excited about the educational opportunities it will bring. As a Carnegie R1 institution, UTA is positioned among the elite 5% of research universities in the U.S., a testament to its commitment to education and economic impact.
For further reading on the economic impact of higher education in the region, check out the [Association of Public and Land Grant Universities’ insights](https://www.aplu.org/) on this topic.
