Five construction projects aim to reshape UW-Madison’s future
The University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Madison city area are currently engaged in several construction projects aimed at expanding spaces for various programs, both on campus and in the surrounding community.
Here’s a look at five key construction projects that are shaping the future of UW-Madison:
A Newly Established School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences
Groundbreaking for the new School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences building at the University of Wisconsin-Madison occurred in April 2023. This school, part of the College of Letters & Science, was established in September 2019. Due to the program’s significant growth, the building is being constructed at the intersection of Orchard Street and University Avenue, with completion anticipated in 2025.
The facility will serve as a collaborative space, integrating the computer science, statistics, and Information School programs, as stated by UW-Madison.
To accommodate construction, sidewalks have been replaced with protected pathways, and certain vehicle lanes are temporarily closed. Lori Wilson, the marketing and communications director for UW-Madison’s Division of Facilities Planning & Management, explained that these changes aim to reduce the impact of ongoing construction activities.
Irving and Dorothy Levy Building
UW-Madison is gearing up to build a new facility for the College of Letters & Science.
Named Levy Hall, this upcoming academic structure for the College of Letters & Science is set to open in 2026, as per Wilson’s information. The building gets its name from Irving and Dorothy Levy, in honor of a generous $20 million donation from the couple’s sons, both alumni of the university.
Construction activities have already commenced on the designated location at the corner of Park Street and West Johnson Street. Two existing residential structures on this site, Susan B. Davis Hall and the Zoe Bayliss Co-op, are scheduled for demolition in the near future.
Wilson pointed out the obsolescence of the Humanities Building, citing its significant functional and operational issues. These include an inefficient design and layout, major renovation challenges, and outdated systems.
Upon its completion, Levy Hall will host several academic programs, including African American Studies, Gender and Women’s Studies, History, the Center for Jewish Studies, Religious Studies, American Indian & Indigenous Studies, Asian American Studies, and Chican@ & Latin@ Studies.
Efforts are underway to relocate the School of Education’s Art Department and the College of Letters & Science’s School of Music from the Humanities Building, Wilson added.
However, the demolition of Mosse Humanities Building is still pending approval. Wilson explained that future projects must be integrated into UW-Madison’s six-year capital development plan, which requires approval from the Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents, and subsequently, the State Legislature and Governor, before any action can be taken.
A Newly Constructed Engineering Facility
The College of Engineering is experiencing a surge in admission applications. To meet this rising demand and accommodate approximately 1,000 additional undergraduate students in engineering programs, school officials have prioritized constructing a new building.
In December, a decision was made by the UW Board of Regents to limit DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) positions for a three-year period in a trade-off with the state Legislature for funding for building projects, including this new engineering facility. As a part of this deal, the UW System agreed to reorganize a third of the current DEI positions.
Governor Tony Evers recently sanctioned $197 million towards the engineering building project. The proposed facility, estimated to cost a total of $347 million, will span 395,000 square feet, making it four times larger than the existing engineering space.
Demolition and Redevelopment of Lake Street Parking Garage
The multi-story parking garage located on North Lake Street was shut down on December 27, followed by a prompt demolition.
This location is set for transformation into a mixed-use development, including an intercity bus terminal, public parking, retail spaces, and residential units. Led by the City of Madison, the completion of this project is expected by the autumn of 2026.
Renovation of Kronshage, Humphrey, and Jorns Residence Halls
Kronshage, Humphrey, and Jorns, three dormitories in the Lakeshore area, are set for upgrades to enhance living spaces.
Starting in 2027, these residence halls will receive new heating systems, refurbished lounges with air conditioning, and improvements to carpets, doors, and lighting, along with other essential enhancements.
