University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Policy Name: Campus Design and Construction of Capital Projects
Policy Number: LR 704.1
Original Effective Date: October 2, 1992
Most Recent Revised Date: April 3, 2026
Policy
The purpose of this policy is to establish a standardized framework for the planning, approval, and execution of capital construction projects to ensure accountability, regulatory compliance, and alignment with the University’s academic mission, campus master plan, and strategic plan.
The Associate Vice Chancellor for Facilities Management has authority to oversee all design and construction projects and may delegate this authority to the Director of Facilities Planning, Design, and Construction. The Facilities Management Department is responsible for code compliance, occupant safety, environmental safety, building quality and aesthetic concerns, and energy management for all buildings of the University and its auxiliary organizations.
The University of Arkansas Little Rock follows University of Arkansas Board Policies 730.1, 730.2, 730.3, 740.1, and 740.2 that address Capital Projects, Major Capital Projects, selection of architects and engineers, and certain energy cost savings contracts. Additionally, UALR follows University of Arkansas Systemwide Policies and Procedures UASP 730.1, UASP 730.2, and UASP 740.1, which provide further detail and additional requirements, as authorized by the Board of Trustees in Board Policy 730.1.
Each capital-construction project has specific regulatory and procedural requirements depending on the total estimated project cost and its associated classification under University policy, Board policy, and state law as a major or minor capital project. Capital projects are broadly defined to include all new construction, alteration, renovation, repair, and infrastructure improvements. Facilities Management will ensure each project adheres to University policy, regulatory and budgetary requirements, and review and approval by the appropriate campus stakeholders.
No interior or exterior design, construction, renovation, or maintenance work pertaining to any University property (whether owned or leased, and including auxiliary organization buildings) may be initiated without the involvement of the Facilities Management Department. This includes the procurement of professional consultants, preparation of drawings, review of proposals, and the accomplishment of the work itself by in-house staff or by contract.
University employees, volunteers, and students will be subject to disciplinary action if, without prior approval of the Facilities Management Department, they undertake construction on University property, make alterations of University property, or authorize such construction or alterations. The University may hold such individuals liable for personal injuries, property damage, and other foreseeable consequences of unapproved construction or alterations. Removal of unauthorized work may be required.
Building Standards
Minimum building standards include the latest edition of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, the National Electrical Code as adopted in Arkansas, the Arkansas Plumbing Code, the Arkansas Mechanical Code and applicable requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Where specific campus building standards have not been established, the University will adopt the standards established by the Arkansas Division of Building Authority, to the extent the standards are applicable and reasonable for the specific project.
Certain projects must be designed, constructed, and certified in accordance with the Performance Rating Method of Appendix G of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Standard 90.1-2013, as it existed on January 1, 2018. See Board Policy 750.1 (Capital Construction/Renovation Energy Conservation Policy) and Ark. Code Ann. § 22-3-2004 (Standards for a Major Facility or a Major Renovation). These standards apply to new construction with occupied or conditioned space over 20,000 square feet, or multiple buildings with combined occupied or conditioned space over 50,000 square feet. The standards also apply to renovation of a building with occupied or conditioned space over 20,000 square feet, or multiple buildings with combined occupied or conditioned space over 50,000 square feet, where the cost of renovation exceeds 50% of the value of the building or buildings being renovated. These standards apply to both owned and leased buildings. Such projects may require consideration of a life-cycle cost analysis.
In-Kind Gifts
For purposes of this policy section, in-kind gifts refer to materials and services associated with the construction and renovation of buildings, structures, and other types of real property. Moveable furniture, fixtures, and equipment that are not part of the built environment are beyond the scope of this policy.
In-kind gifts must not increase the project cost, delay completion, compromise quality, or compromise ethical standards.
Those who donate services or materials will be held to the same standards as other vendors and contractors as defined in University policy, state law, and applicable contract terms and conditions. Solicitations and discussions regarding in-kind gifts should make it clear that donors, like other vendors, will be expected to agree to standard University contract terms and conditions.
Revised Dates: 04/2026; 04/2001; 10/1992
Status: Active
Originator: Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration
Custodian: Facilities Management Department