The campus is coming alive at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, with classes kicking off for the fall semester on Aug. 24. Returning students are likely already noticing some major changes to the surroundings.
Let’s dig into what major projects were finished over the summer and when you can expect to see the ongoing ones completed, according to the university’s Communication and Marketing department.
Westbrook Music Building
Students might still see work continuing on the landscaping around the new home for the Glenn Korff School of Music, but the construction of this state-of-the-art building was officially completed before the fall semester began.
The 103,000-square-foot facility has been hosting classes since the fall 2025 semester, but now it’s truly ready to shine with its new performance hall, recording studio, rehearsal spaces, classrooms, music library, and offices.
Pershing Military and Naval Science Building
Crews have completed repairs and updates to this nearly 80-year-old building (opened in 1947). Those included electrical updates, window replacement, a new heating and air conditioning system, and hazardous abatement work. Students will also notice that the restrooms have been renovated and elevators replaced. Salute.
Mueller Tower
Dedicated during homecoming festivities in 1949, the iconic Mueller Tower was a gift from 1898 grad Ralph Mueller. This year, crews removed and cataloged about 1,700 stones while replacing the exterior limestone and installing new steel supports and mortar where needed. They also placed new screens around the top, added a new door at the bottom, and installed a new sound system to give the bell tower that much more oomph.
The project isn’t quite finished yet, but it’s expected to be complete by Labor Day weekend.
Sidewalks and concrete work
Students may be harried on the way to class by the closure of certain walkways, especially in the area surrounding the Canfield Administration Building and Nebraska Union. Do not fret; barring any drastic delays due to weather, all sidewalk repaving work in the area is expected to be complete by early September.
Nebraska Union
Renovations remain ongoing inside the Nebraska Union, including a complete overhaul of the cafeteria that will add two new eateries and expand space for students to eat and relax, with a phased opening about midway through the fall semester. Also look for the new esports lounge near the campus bookstore to open by the end of September.
Check out this listing from Nebraska Today for details on other changes to campus, ranging from the upcoming opening of a rodeo arena to the “Big Red Rebuild” at Memorial Stadium.
