Brigham Young University–Hawaii is in the midst of major construction projects this summer. Several housing and academic buildings are nearing completion, while others begin a new phase of development. The projects—ranging from modern apartment-style dormitories to a comprehensive overhaul of the educational hub—are part of a long-term vision to support students’ growth through enhanced learning and living spaces.
Housing Developments: Hale 11, 12, and 13
Earlier this year, Hale 11 officially opened its doors as the first new single-student dormitory in over a decade. The four-story building features in-unit laundry and apartment-style layouts, offering female students a more modern and independent living environment. Hale 12, located adjacent to Hale 11, was completed shortly after and opened in June 2025 to female students. Both Hale 11 and 12 also introduced a new and unique campus feature—surfboard parking. This amenity reflects the university’s island environment and student lifestyle, making BYU–Hawaii the only Church Education School and one of just a few universities in the world to accommodate surfboards right outside student housing.
Construction is also nearing completion for Hale 13, which is slated to house male students starting in December 2025. All three new dorms were built by Okland Construction. Mone Tuifua, the project manager for the student housing projects with Okland Construction, said, “These hale projects are designed to elevate the living and learning environment for a diverse student body from across the globe.” He added, “It’s been an honor to return to the very grounds where our educational and personal journeys began, now helping build the future for students across the Pacific and beyond.”
TVA Progress: New Apartments and Scheduled Demolitions
Over at the married student on-campus housing, Temple View Apartments (TVA), major progress continues as Jacobsen Construction leads development. TVA building A4 is nearly complete, with an expected opening by the end of August 2025, with TVA building A5 on track for a July 2026 opening.
As part of the university’s broader redevelopment plan, TVA buildings J, K, L, and M are scheduled for demolition in August 2025. The removal of these older buildings will make room for more efficient and hurricane-resilient structures using insulated concrete forms (ICF), a design known for its durability and energy efficiency. Once buildings J, K, L, and M are demolished, 17 TVA buildings will remain. When A4 opens next month, the total number of buildings will be 18 out of the original 21.
“It is a privilege to be a part of work on the BYUH campus. We are proud of what we are accomplishing at the university and love to see the reactions of students, faculty, and community as we add the new housing facilities,” said Shawn Thomas, the project director at Jacobsen Construction. He added, "These new housing units will serve students and their families for many years to come. We appreciate the opportunity to be involved in this great cause.”
McKay Building Replacement Project Begins
This summer also marks the beginning of one of the most ambitious projects in BYU–Hawaii’s recent history: the replacement of the David O. McKay Complex. While the middle and back section of the McKay building will remain open for now, the front section and the flag circle in front of it have now been closed off as preparation for demolition begins.
According to the university’s Planning, Design & Construction department, the McKay redevelopment will replace the current McKay Classroom Building, Aloha Center, and portions of the Joseph F. Smith Library. Over the next five years, five new buildings will rise in their place: a modern classroom building, faculty offices, an auditorium, a student service center, a welcome center, and a student-focused commons space.
Campus Vision and Student Impact
These construction efforts align with BYU–Hawaii’s long-term mission to provide a peaceful, clean, and functional campus that enhances students’ academic and spiritual development. From upgraded dormitories to new learning spaces, every project reflects a commitment to creating a "home away from home" for students preparing to lead their families, communities, and nations. Each new space is also designed to inspire faith and discipleship, with plans to infuse buildings with messages of the gospel of Jesus Christ, depictions of the Savior, and words from living prophets.
With every beam and blueprint, the university is building more than physical structures—it is shaping an environment where students can discover their divine identity, grow in purpose, and be equipped to serve and lead with compassion and conviction across Oceania and the Asian Rim.
For the latest updates and live streams of construction progress, visit construction.byuh.edu.