Arkansas Tech University will initiate phase one of a two-phase project to beautify the Hindsman Tower lawn on Monday, June 16.
Phase one will consist of removing 12 trees during summer 2025.
Phase two, which will take place during summer 2026, will see the area transformed into a green space with improved grass coverage, enhanced irrigation and new trees. Cut stone edging and mulch beds will also be installed to help support the health of the trees.
The project is made possible through the philanthropy of Arkansas Tech alumnus and benefactor Robert Norman.
“Over a span of multiple decades, Mr. Norman and his family have made a series of gifts that have played an integral role in providing Arkansas Tech with one of the most beautiful campuses in this region of the United States,” said Dr. Russell Jones, ATU president. “We are grateful for his continued commitment to providing our students, faculty and staff with such an appealing place to learn, live, teach and work.”
The Hindsman Tower lawn plays host to a wide variety of student events throughout the academic year and it is a well-traveled crossroads for daily pedestrian traffic.
“The Hindsman Tower green space project, paired with the forthcoming Bert and Annette Mullens Plaza on the north side of Ferguson Student Union, will be one of the most impactful exterior beautification efforts in ATU history,” said Drew Dickey, ATU director of facilities management. “We will have a continuous pedestrian mall stretching from Ferguson Student Union to Ross Pendergraft Library and Technology Center that will create unprecedented opportunities for ATU students, faculty, staff, alumni and guests to gather in the natural beauty that surrounds us. We are excited to begin this project and look forward to completing it during summer 2026.”
