Students return at Alabama with new dorm, continued construction

If you have traveled around Tuscaloosa lately you may have noticed that traffic is a bit heavier in certain areas, especially near the University of Alabama campus.

That’s because fall classes at the Capstone begin Wednesday.

As the University of Alabama is expecting nearly 40,000 students for the fall semester, UA President Dr. Stuart Bell sat down for a minute with WVUA 23 Senior Anchor Tamika Alexander for a discussion about what’s in store for the campus.

One of the biggest things returning students will notice is the change in skyline, as the now-former Julia Tutwiler Hall was demolished on July 4. The new Julia Tutwiler Hall, located in close to the same spot, opened to students earlier this month.

But that’s not the only building that got knocked down over the summer, Bell said.

“We took down Harris Hall,” he said. “If you were a student many years ago you may have found yourself there. We are building a new facility for fashion and design in that spot. We will also have a new sorority in that location and many projects throughout the year.”

Bell briefly mentioned the potential for alcohol inside Bryant-Denny Stadium: A first in Alabama football history.

The Tuscaloosa City Council is set to vote on the sale of alcohol at University of Alabama functions, including at Bryant-Denny and Coleman Colisium, at Tuesday’s council meeting.