KINGSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — Leaders, faculty and students at the University of Rhode Island (URI) are celebrating the construction progress of the Fine Arts Center on Thursday. A ceremonial beam signing will be held under a tent behind the building at 10 a.m. Construction on the 56-year-old building is expected to cost about $100 million. The money has been funded by a voter-approved bond of $57.3 million, along with state and University funds. The project includes the construction of a 71,000-square-foot, three-story academic building that will feature a new theater lobby and art gallery on the first floor. Along with modern classrooms, the project will create technical areas for digital art and media, recording studios, improved acoustics, and more public space and natural light. Construction is scheduled to be completed in September 2025. The signed beam will be lifted into place this fall or early winter. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW