AUSTIN, Texas — Chairman Kevin P. Eltife and The University of Texas System Board of Regents are embarking on a bold new vision to keep the UT Tower shining brightly, providing the $26 million lead investment to restore and renovate The University of Texas at Austin’s most celebrated landmark. As a complement to the renovation, the investment will also support extensive landscaping and beautification efforts for areas such as the Main Mall and other surrounding grounds.
For nearly 100 years, generations of Longhorns have looked up to the Tower, an icon of the university’s excellence, purpose and spirit. This monumental project — the first major Tower renovation in its history — will restore the exterior to its original brilliance and update the observation deck and beloved carillon bells.
“In the 1930s the UT Tower was a bold statement about the enduring excellence of The University of Texas at Austin. Our board is deeply proud to support carrying that bold vision forward for generations to come,” Eltife said.
The University will rally all of Longhorn Nation to join the project and support the centerpiece of campus that has been the home for graduation ceremonies, family photos, athletics celebrations and historic milestones for hundreds of thousands of alumni, friends and Texans.
“The Tower stands on the very spot where our first learning community gathered, and it endures as a beacon for truth-seekers, academic excellence and achievement,” said President Jay Hartzell. “I am grateful to Chairman Eltife and the regents for their incredibly generous support. Their investment will enhance and preserve the Tower’s legacy and ensure that it shines even brighter for generations to come.”
Look for an exciting announcement about the Tower’s historic restoration at the Longhorns home football game against Texas Christian University on Nov. 12.
