The university first attempted an immense Fine Arts Center to house the art, dance, drama, and music departments in the late 1970s. Planned for the northeastern corner of campus, a shortage of funds decreased the project size and only the drama department received the completed facilities (the University Theatre Center). This process repeated itself a decade later when inadequate funds again yielded a single building (the Fine Arts Building) that eventually housed the department of music [1].

This building was discussed as far back as 2006 as home for the departments of music, theater, and dance (the latter of which currently utilizes AB3). The $38.5 million project will bring together the three programs in a 91,976 square foot facility that will include recital and concert halls, an outdoor performance area, practice and rehearsal rooms, costume storage, and offices.

The estimated completion date is Fall 2010.