Montclair State Breaks Ground on $120M Science Building

• Montclair State University has broken ground on a $120 million Interdisciplinary Science Building at 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, New Jersey.
• The 110,000-square-foot facility will triple the university's science laboratory space and support expanded STEM education and research.
• Designed by HOK, the project is targeting LEED Silver certification and is expected to open for the 2028–2029 academic year.

What Is Being Built at Montclair State University

Construction is officially underway on a new Interdisciplinary Science Building at Montclair State University, marking a major investment in STEM education and campus infrastructure. Located at 1 Normal Avenue in Montclair, New Jersey, the 110,000-square-foot academic building will replace the former Webster Hall and significantly expand the university's teaching and research capabilities. The $120 million project will feature advanced laboratories for chemistry, physics, and interdisciplinary science programs, along with technology-enabled classrooms, faculty offices, student collaboration areas, flexible event space, and modern research facilities.

What the New Facility Will Include

The building has been designed to support both classroom instruction and hands-on research while encouraging collaboration among students, faculty, and community partners. In addition to teaching and research laboratories, the project will include indoor and outdoor learning environments, student lounges, huddle spaces, and a fourth-floor collaboration area reserved for an external partner organization that will create additional experiential learning opportunities. A rooftop terrace and outdoor event plaza will provide informal gathering spaces designed to promote interaction between students, researchers, and faculty.

What University Leaders Say About the Project

University leadership says the new science building represents a long-term investment in student success and workforce development.

"At Montclair, we strive to offer an academic experience that is both accessible and excellent," said Montclair State University President Jonathan Koppell.

"The Interdisciplinary Science Building is part of that commitment. Fulfilling our mission requires constant innovation and investment to ensure we provide the best experience possible for our students. By creating modern laboratories, collaborative spaces and research opportunities, we ensure our students receive an education worthy of their investment while preparing them to shape the future of New Jersey."

The project is partially funded through a $60 million capital facilities grant provided by the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education.

What This Means for Higher Education in New Jersey

Designed by HOK, the building will be constructed to LEED Silver standards and incorporate sustainable features including solar energy systems, a native rain garden, bioswale, and dry stream bed. Once completed, the facility will triple Montclair State University's available science laboratory space, strengthening its position as New Jersey's leading producer of minority STEM graduates. The university expects the new Interdisciplinary Science Building to open in time for the 2028–2029 academic year, providing students with expanded research opportunities and modern learning environments for decades to come.