UTRGV approves new marine research facility

PORT ISABEL, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley will soon start construction on a new marine ecosystems research facility in Port Isabel.

The new $21.5 million dollar project will replace five outdated portable buildings that the university has utilized for coastal research for years. The facility will nearly double the square feet of the existing setup, with a 14,000 square foot, one-story building that can withstand harsh coastal conditions.

UTRGV Vice President of Research Dr. Can Saygin said the portable buildings were no longer suitable for their students and faculty.

"It got to a point where it doesn't really meet the needs of researchers," Saygin said.

Construction of the new research facility is expected to begin in January and be completed by December 2026.

Saygin said the new facility could offer more hands-on learning opportunities for not only UTRGV students, but also the local community.

"Exposing students to that advanced technology is important," Saygin said. "And then not just UTRGV students, but then you can do workshops and summer camps and get into k-12 school districts."

Several areas that students are currently researching include coastal ecosystems, sustainability and climate change.