By: Haley Frederking

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) — The University of Arkansas is expanding its campus with new residence halls and an academic building. 

Two new Maple Hill residence halls and Dillard Hall are set to provide students with more housing, classroom space and resources. 

Maple Hill Central and Maple Hill North will be located on the north end of campus next to the three existing Maple Hill residence halls and will add more than 1,300 beds.  

Assistant Director for Marketing and Strategic Communications for University Housing Jason Comerford said the new housing is part of the university’s effort to prepare for students and provide them with a positive living experience.

“At housing, we’re really kind of taking care of all of the kids,” Comerford said. “The best way to do that is to make sure all of our housing is lined up and done well.”

Maple Hill Central is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by fall 2028. 

Maple Hill North is currently in the design phase and a completion date has not yet been determined.

Along with expanding student housing, a new academic building for the College of Business will provide additional classroom space. 

Dillard Hall will add about 100,000 square feet to the college, including classrooms seating more than 70 students and collaboration spaces. 

Judy and Lance McReynolds donated $500,000 to support the new building, which will help fund a 135-seat classroom that will be named in honor of the McReynolds family.

Assistant Dean of Philanthropy Mark Power said the building is being designed around the needs of students and faculty.

“I hope they are inspired by this new facility that was designed specifically for their success,” Power said. “All of this preparation getting the facility online, it’s all we’ve been taking into account all of what students need and what faculty need.”

Power said he also hopes students recognize the support behind the project.

“I also want them to know that there are so many people who are behind them who want to see them succeed.” 

Dillard Hall is currently in the design phase and construction could begin as early as late April. The building is expected to be completed in summer 2029.

The new residence halls and Dillard Hall are expected to expand housing and academic space as the university accommodates a growing student population.