Judson ISD Security Vestibule in Universal City, TX

Judson Early College Academy at 8230 Palisades Drive in Universal City completed a $150,000 renovation focused on enhancing campus security. The project, filed with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) as the Judson ISD Security Vestibule, involved altering the existing entry and reception areas to accommodate a new security vestibule. This construction effort represents a targeted upgrade to the facility's safety infrastructure rather than a full-scale expansion or new build.

The scope of work included minor renovation of the entry point, modifications to reception areas for the new vestibule, and the addition of a check-in point featuring secondary aluminum framing. The project also incorporated security film glazing and upgrades to electrical systems and interior finishes. These changes were designed to improve physical security controls at the school's main access point, ensuring a more controlled environment for students and staff entering the building.

The total estimated cost for the project was $150,000, covering 502 square feet of work. This translates to a cost of $299 per square foot. While this per-square-foot rate is above the Bexar County median of $85 for similar renovation and alteration filings, the total project cost remains below the county median of $250,000. The scheduled build window was 184 days, which is longer than the county median of 103 days for comparable projects, likely reflecting the specialized nature of security system integration and electrical upgrades.

Judson Independent School District is the owner of record for this project. The district has registered several other projects with TDLR, including renovations at Judson Middle School in Converse and Franz Elementary School in Live Oak. This project aligns with a broader pattern of facility improvements across the district, emphasizing security and modernization of existing infrastructure. The use of public funds for this renovation underscores the district's commitment to maintaining safe and functional learning environments for its students.

The accessibility review process for this construction concluded when TDLR closed the project file in October 2026. This action marks the end of the regulatory oversight for the accessibility aspects of the renovation. The final inspection for the project passed in August 2026, confirming that the work met the required standards before the file was officially closed. The project registration and plan review were completed in April 2025, with construction beginning in July 2025 and the planned completion date set for January 2026.

This renovation at Judson Early College Academy reflects a specific investment in security infrastructure within the Universal City community. The project’s completion and the closure of the TDLR file indicate that the regulatory requirements for the accessibility and safety upgrades have been satisfied. The focus on entry security and electrical systems highlights a practical approach to improving the school's operational safety without altering the overall footprint of the building.