After decades of academic use, Binnion Hall at East Texas A&M University in Commerce is set to undergo a $24.8 million renovation that will return it to its original purpose: student housing.
The university says the three-story hall will house up to 200 students in a space designed for sophomore, junior and senior-level students.
"We need sufficient, high-quality on-campus housing options for our students," says Tina Livingston, the university’s chief financial officer. "The renovation will add a significant number of beds back into the university’s housing inventory. Beyond that, students today expect more than just a place to sleep. They want comfortable, technologically advanced and amenity-rich living spaces."
The decision to renovate Binnion Hall over Smith or Berry Halls primarily comes down to its central location on campus, Livingston says. Binnion is situated at a key intersection and easily connects students to academic buildings, dining facilities and other essential campus resources.
The renovation plan will respond to students' desires for more sophisticated and private living arrangements. There will also be a variety of room types. Single, double, triple, and quadruple rooms provide flexibility and cater to various student preferences and budgets.
The upgrade will create spaces that encourage social interaction and community building among residents while supporting academic success. Dedicated amenities on the ground floor will include a lounge, business center, gaming center and laundry facilities.
The site plans call for a large outdoor plaza between Binnion and Henderson Halls, which will improve the pedestrian experience and access to outdoor spaces.
Construction is expected to begin in late 2026 or early 2027, with a projected completion date in 2028. Key historical features of Binnion Hall will be preserved wherever possible. The goal is to respectfully honor the building’s rich legacy and its original character while upgrading it to meet modern standards
Binnion Hall was built in 1948 and named for Randolph B. Binnion, the university’s second president. It was designed to house 306 female students. The building closed in 1972 for a major renovation. When it reopened in 1976, it was repurposed for academic use.
Today, Binnion Hall houses various academic departments.
