Carl J. Eckhardt Heating and Power Plant: Boiler Replacement

Project Summary
The project involves replacing two old 1945 steam boilers with two newer, higher-capacity boilers at the Carl J. Eckhardt Heating and Power Plant on UT Austin's main campus. This upgrade will strengthen the University’s already highly efficient and reliable cogeneration utility system, preserving and enhancing its existing design and performance standards.

Project Location: Carl J. Eckhardt Heating and Power Plant, 215 E 24th St, Austin, TX 78712  

Major Anticipated Outcomes/Benefits of Completed Project: The planned replacement of the boiler system aims to upgrade the steam system, maintaining or enhancing its original design principles and efficiencies.

Pedestrian Impacts: The south side of the 24th Street sidewalk will remain open. However, the north sidewalk from San Jacinto Boulevard to the Gary L. Thomas Energy Engineering Building (GLT) is already closed to all pedestrian traffic and will remain closed through July 2026 due to ongoing construction at the Engineering Discovery Building (EDB).

Pedestrians walking through the alley on the south side of 24th Street, between the Carl J. Eckhardt Heating and Power Plant and the cooling towers, heading toward the Jackson Geological Sciences Building (JGB), Laboratory Theater Building (LTH), or F.L. Winship Drama Building (WIN) may experience delays due to increased construction activity. During these times, traffic coordinators will be stationed in the alley to help direct pedestrian flow.

Travel Impacts: Traffic coordinators may be present at times of high construction activity on 24th Street. 

Bicycle Impacts: There are no bicycle impacts. Bicyclists are encouraged to refer to the City of Austin Bike Map.

Parking Impacts: There are no parking impacts. 

Contact

For any questions about this project, please contact Planning, Design and Construction at construction@utexas.edu.