Hamilton Walton Transformation Project Ph.3 Update
Phase III of the HWTP introduces new open space connecting Erb Memorial Union, at the heart of campus, all the way to Matthew Knight Arena. This roughly 160k sf landscaped space replaces the Humpy Lumpy Lawn, where Unthank Hall was built, while also knitting together existing open space. To the north, setback from 13th Avenue, a new NCAA beach volleyball court will further enliven this outdoor social space. Phase III is on track to be completed in the summer of 2026.
Many thanks to Mithun and their talented landscaping team for leading the design of this open space.
Below is more info from the Register Guard on HWTP Phase III.
Demolition crews at Hamilton Hall. Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard
What's happening to Hamilton Hall on the UO campus?
By Hannarose McGuinness
Eugene Register-Guard
Nov. 28, 2025
Demolition of Hamilton Hall has begun on the University of Oregon campus. The deconstruction is part of the university's plan to establish more varieties of on-campus housing.
Demolition of the former residence hall is a component of the multi-phase Hamilton Walton Transformation Project, which included building new residence halls. Hamilton Hall will be replaced with lawn space.
UO is also working on its Next Gen Housing Development Plan to add about 1,600 new rooms across two residence halls, to be constructed by fall of 2028, in the East Campus area. Here’s what we know about the demolition of Hamilton Hall.
What is Hamilton Hall?
Hamilton Hall first opened in 1962. Since, thousands of Ducks have called Hamilton Hall home.
UO’s housing plans have brought three new buildings to campus since 2021, increasing capacity by 1,800 students and offering units meant to support both underclassmen and those nearing graduation.
Angela Seydel, director of issues management for UO, said salvage operations at Hamilton Hall began in June and July. In October, soft demolition of items like built-in furniture began.
Building demolition began Nov. 18 and is expected to conclude by mid to late February.
Once torn down, the space where Hamilton stands will be transformed into a green space. The space will be about 20% larger than the Humpy Lumpy Lawn where Unthank Hall was built. Phase III of the Hamilton Walton Transformation is expected to cost almost $10 million between demolition of Hamilton and green space replacement.
What will campus be like without Hamilton Hall?
When Hamilton Hall is demolished, the resulting green space will stretch from the lawn of the Erb Memorial Union to the alumni center and Matthew Knight Arena.
UO plans to construct an NCAA beach volleyball court on the north side of the parcel. The entirety of Phase III will occupy about 161,500 square feet.
Funding for this project comes from revenue bonds and internal banking. Anticipated completion for the project is in the summer 2026.