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OBU—Oklahoma Baptist University

Campus Construction Updates

April 22, 2026

Hello Bison Nation,

Progress continues across campus as key projects move forward during the final stretch of the spring semester. Here’s a snapshot of what’s taking shape on Bison Hill this month.

Raley Chapel

Raley Chapel, exterior grounds

Renovations to Raley Chapel continue to move forward at a steady pace as the spring semester winds down. OBU administration, Facilities Services and construction partners remain encouraged by the progress across this historic project.

On the exterior of the building, waterproofing has been completed on the east side of Potter Auditorium and is nearing completion on the north and west sides. Backfilling of trenches with gravel and soil is underway to provide stabilization. This waterproofing process will help prevent water intrusion into below-grade levels, extending the life of the building and improving conditions for the campus community.

Rough grading of the retention ponds has been completed, along with initial piping installation for future water features. Fine grading is expected to begin soon, followed by the installation of pond liners. Recent rains have caused minor delays due to unworkable conditions, but overall site grading has been successful. Surface runoff is now properly directed toward the ponds, addressing stormwater challenges the campus has faced in recent years.

Construction is also progressing on a new bridge located just east of the Raley Chapel south porch. Footings and walls are nearing completion, with the walking surface scheduled to be poured in the coming weeks. This pedestrian bridge will serve as a key feature of the new “Cardo,” a central east-west corridor that will eventually connect from the south side of Thurmond Hall to the Hurt Memorial Athletic Complex.

On the north side of the chapel, demolition is underway for the parking lot east of Raley Drive. Once complete, this area will serve as the primary entrance to campus from MacArthur Street.

Raley Chapel, east wing band room, as rockwool board is installed to enhance sound dampening

Interior renovations continue throughout the facility. In the basement, hydronic piping for the new HVAC system and electrical rough-in are in progress. On the second floor of the west wing, spray foam insulation is underway, with K-13 acoustic insulation scheduled next.

In the east wing, rockwool board installation is ongoing to enhance sound dampening in band and choral spaces. Overhead ductwork is being installed on the first floor, while piping rough-in continues on the second floor, with fire sprinkler installation to follow.

Raley Chapel, scaffolding setup inside Potter Auditorium
Raley Chapel, view of ceiling/attic area above Potter Auditorium scaffolding as acoustic insulation is installed

Inside Potter Auditorium, acoustic insulation has been installed while scaffolding remains in place. Steel work continues in the attic to support new catwalks, and all structural steel in this area will be painted black to blend with the ceiling. Electrical and fire suppression rough-in in the auditorium is scheduled to begin soon.

Restoration of the iconic stained-glass windows remains underway. Shop drawings for new steel framing are being revised as each frame is carefully de-soldered and individual pieces of glass are cleaned. Damaged or missing pieces will be replaced as part of the restoration process.

Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm as we work together to shape the future of OBU! Stay tuned for more updates as these projects progress.