Building a campus worthy of an innovation hub
The University of Alabama in Huntsville is moving forward with a multi-phased plan to transform the 58-acre Exploration Plaza into a vibrant, mixed-use district that strengthens student life, research, and community connections. In partnership with Rieth Jones Advisors - an advisory firm specializing in higher-education real estate and infrastructure - UAH is shaping Exploration Plaza into a true college-town environment that enhances recruitment, satisfaction, and long-term success for students, faculty, and staff.
Project Update: Winter 2025
UAH selects master developer for Exploration Plaza
The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees has authorized UAH to negotiate with Capstone Development Partners and Lincoln Property Company to serve jointly as the master developer for Exploration Plaza (formerly Executive Plaza). Their selection follows a robust and competitive public procurement process. Phase I of the project includes two university-owned facilities and two developer-owned components designed to strengthen student life, research capabilities, and UAH’s connection to the Huntsville community.
For additional information, please click the yellow button below to email David Boone of Rieth Jones Advisors:
CONTACT RIETH JONES ADVISORSPhase I Guiding Principles
Connection
An accessible place that is open and safe, unifying the UAH properties and promoting comfortable multimodal transit options throughout.
Community
A welcoming place that encourages human interaction, fostering a sense of family and home as well as lifelong friendships.
Identity
A unique place that celebrates the culture and values of UAH in creative, playful, and one-of-a-kind ways, boosting UAH spirit and pride.
Nature
A resilient place that protects ecologies, champions sustainability, and invites interaction with nature in public parks and green spaces.
Innovation
A forward-thinking place that advances intrepid research and new technologies, supporting both academic sciences and advanced industries.
Education
A stimulating place that offers out-of-the-classroom learning experiences in spaces that encourage personal and group study.
Adventure
A dynamic place, bursting with activity and fun in the form of varied programming, entertainment, and recreation throughout the year.
Wellness
A healthy place that supports physical and mental well-being in facilities that prioritize fitness, nutrition, relaxation, and rest.
Value
Each development project will be financially self-sufficient and provide qualitative and quantitative (economic) returns to UAH.
Value Propositions
Financial Impact
A mixed-use development of this magnitude will not only provide financial return to the University but will create and expand jobs within the Huntsville community, strengthening local economic impact.
Investment in the Community
The redevelopment of this site will create a thriving environment for UAH and community members, providing unique dining and retail options, world-class office and research facilities, enhanced educational opportunities, and creation of hundreds of jobs in the Huntsville market.
