Central Utilities Initiative (CUI)
The Central Utilities Initiative is the university’s plan to enhance the resiliency and redundancy of the utility systems and prepare for future campus growth.
Similar to the Phase I construction project in the Peabody Neighborhood in 2020, CUI will convert the original underground steam distribution system to hot water saving considerable energy and install chilled water lines, supporting the university’s sustainability goals. In alignment with Vanderbilt’s FutureVU vision, the project also will include the burying of overhead utilities, road improvements, and an enhanced pedestrian-centric environment, comparable to the transformation of the West End Neighborhood in 2019.
Phase I
Vanderbilt University kicked off the Central Utilities Initiative with Phase I in January 2023. CUI Phase I occurred near the Frist Athletics Neighborhood and include the construction of the Highland Energy Plant. The Highland Energy Plant increases Vanderbilt’s capacity for utility generation and improved distribution lines. Sustainably designed, the Highland Energy Plant is located at the corner of 25th Avenue South and Children’s Way near the David Williams II Recreation and Wellness Center.
Phase II
Phase II of the Central Utilities Initiative shifted the work across 25th Avenue South into Vanderbilt’s Central Neighborhood. Phase II will continue the university’s efforts to upgrade utilities and bury overhead to utilities to support future growth. CUI Phase II will provide the necessary utilities for Vanderbilt’s Central Neighborhood Residential Colleges.
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