Sul Ross State University (SRSU) recently expanded its real estate holdings in Alpine by purchasing two buildings off campus for approximately $2 million. However, the university has not yet disclosed its plans for the properties, according to the Skyline student newspaper.
In a close-knit community like Alpine, news of the university’s acquisition of the original Porter’s building and another structure off East Holland Street quickly circulated. While the purchases have sparked curiosity, university officials remain tight-lipped about future use.
The Skyline reports that the funds for these acquisitions were drawn from the university’s investment fund, which utilizes a mix of operating funds and endowments to invest in external ventures, according to Betse Esparza, SRSU’s director of university communications.
Potential uses for the properties include housing facilities for either the Art or Nursing departments, though Esparza noted that no final decision has been made. “The decision has yet to be made and will be made strictly on the assessment of need for their various departments,” she told the Skyline.
At this time, it remains unclear which department or individual within the university will make the final determination on the properties’ future roles.
