The Texas A&M system board of regents approves increasing the project budget for a new semiconductor institute that will be built on the RELLIS campus. Click HERE to read and download information that was approved at the November 7, 2024 board of regents meeting. Deputy vice chancellor David Staack told the regents the $189 million dollar complex will accommodate advanced equipment to build semiconductors for the next ten years. Background information from the system says the revised budget “increases the square footage and capabilities of semiconductor manufacturing research special purpose laboratory spaces and cleanroom spaces by about twenty-five percent.” A system document also says “Correspondingly, there was a decrease in the new equipment purchases associated with the overall project.” The institute, according to the system document, “aims to establish a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to semiconductor research, development, and innovation.” The project “will feature a cleanroom facility, additional support labs, offices, and general infrastructure to facilitate cutting-edge semiconductor fabrication and research activities. The facility will be designed and constructed to meet the highest industry standards and accommodate advanced equipment for semiconductor fabrication into the next decade.” The system document also says “Research and development will focus on semiconductor devices that enable quantum and artificial intelligence and leap ahead processing technologies. As envisioned, the facility will be unique in the nation with respect to the versatility and fidelity of semiconductor manufacturing.” Staack also the complex will also have a 1.5 million gallon water tower and another water well. Funding comes from a $226.5 million dollar appropriation during the 2023 legislative session. Click below to hear comments from the November 7, 2024 Texas A&M system board of regents building committee meeting.