Demolition of the Humanities Building on the University of New Mexico’s Central Campus began in mid-July 2025, making way for a new Humanities & Social Sciences (HSS) Facility. The building, which has stood since 1974, is being removed after a 2020 assessment found significant structural and safety issues, including frequent flooding and structural failure. Officials determined that repairs were not feasible and that the building could no longer support academic programs.
A construction barrier now surrounds the site at Smith Plaza, with fencing extending through the plaza and along Zimmerman Library to the C-Lot parking area. Pedestrian access remains available via a designated walking path through Smith Plaza, and flaggers are present to direct foot traffic safely.
The demolition is expected to conclude by late fall 2025. Construction of the new HSS Facility is scheduled to begin in mid-2026, with completion targeted for the start of classes in fall 2028. The facility will provide teaching, research, and gathering spaces for departments within the humanities and social sciences.
Jennifer Malat, dean of UNM College of Arts and Sciences, commented on the project: “This fall marks an important and exciting time for UNM and Central Campus. The new Humanities and Social Sciences facility will create a modern hub for the thousands of UNM students who take humanities and social sciences courses each semester. This investment in UNM’s future will enhance the education of nearly every Lobo, as our courses are required for most undergraduate majors. I’m excited that students will witness this moment and may even take classes in the finished building before they graduate.”
Funding for demolition comes from $2.36 million allocated through General Obligation Bond 3 approved by New Mexico voters in November 2024. The construction budget for the HSS Facility is set at $87.6 million. Studio Tsien Architects and SMPC Architects are leading design efforts.
Faculty and staff previously housed in the Humanities Building have been relocated; their current locations are listed on the Humanities Building Transition page.
