Texas A&M Regents Keep Meat Science Center on Main Campus, Expand Investment to Anchor Future Agriculture District
March 30, 2026 | 2 min to read
BRYAN, COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents has approved an expanded $133.36 million investment in a new Meat Sciences & Technology Center, keeping the facility on the main campus and positioning it as the anchor of a future agriculture district.
The now $133.36 million investment adds $18.76 million to the previously approved project, and shifts its trajectory by moving it from a planned site at Texas A&M–RELLIS to West Campus, where it will be built along Finfeather Road and integrated into the university’s long-range plan for development.
“This is exactly where this program belongs,” said Robert Albritton, Chairman of the Board of Regents. “At the center of campus, at the center of our mission, and at the center of an industry that matters to every Texan.”
The Board’s action amends the A&M System’s capital plan, increases the project budget and approves additional construction scope tied to the new location and supporting infrastructure.
“This isn’t just about a building,” said Glenn Hegar. “It’s about putting agriculture where it belongs, front and center, and making sure we’re preparing students to lead in an industry that feeds this state and this country.”
Originally planned for the RELLIS campus, the facility will now serve as a cornerstone of a future agriculture district on West Campus, bringing one of Texas A&M’s most hands-on, industry-facing programs closer to students, faculty and partners.
“Texas A&M AgriLife is already the nation’s most comprehensive agricultural program and home to the largest agricultural college,” said Jeffrey W. Savell, Ph.D., vice chancellor and dean of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “This agriculture district ensures we use that scale to deliver solutions that matter—advancing agriculture not just in size or reputation, but in impact for Texas and the world.”
Texas A&M’s meat science program dates back to 1926 and has long been a national leader in meat production, processing and food safety. The current facility, built in 1983, no longer meets the demands of modern research and instruction. The new center, approximately 85,600 square feet, will provide updated labs, classrooms, processing space and public-facing capabilities to support teaching, research, extension and industry engagement.
“This facility allows us to reimagine meat science for the next generation,” said G. Cliff Lamb, Ph.D., director of AgriLife Research. “By integrating advanced technologies, we are expanding research capacity and advancing discovery to address critical challenges across animal agriculture and global food systems.”
The project is supported through a mix of System financing, AgriLife Research-related revenue, private gifts and Available University Fund (AUF) resources backed by the Permanent University Fund (PUF), part of Texas’ long-standing commitment to higher education alongside the Permanent School Fund, which supports public education statewide.
Construction is expected to be completed in 2028.