Arkansas State University Querétaro Campus: A Social and Educational Connection Between Mexico and the USA

The Mexican region of El Bajío, encompasses the states of Aguascalientes, Jalisco (from Guadalajara to the Highlands), Guanajuato, and Querétaro which is a thriving territory. The economy of the region thrives on agriculture and industry, along with a rich cultural heritage that draws in tourists. Moreover, education is vital, with each state hosting important higher education institutions.

The Arkansas State University Querétaro Campus (ASUCQ) is a private foundation in Mexico dedicated to establishing the city’s first American university campus.

Covering 64,200 square meters, the complex includes ten buildings for academics, residence, administration, a library, and service facilities, all linked by a network of sports fields and open-air recreational spaces. This includes a soccer field with an Olympic-standard athletics track, an American football field, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, fast soccer courts, and multiple tennis and basketball courts.

Celebrating its twentieth anniversary in Mexico, Ayesa has become a key player in the country’s economic landscape, contributing to numerous engineering and architecture projects. As the Project & Construction Manager for this university campus, Ayesa delivered comprehensive management, coordination, and supervision services. The company facilitated permit processes, prepared tender packages for bids, and outlined the procedures for the selection and hiring of contractors.

Ayesa’s responsibilities extended to the meticulous planning, budgeting, and temporal control of the project. It managed construction activities, ensured adherence to quality standards, and provided overall project leadership. Additionally, Ayesa executed essential infrastructure work, including the development of access and internal roads, installation of wastewater and drinking water treatment plants, water wells, an electrical substation, and connections for gas and fiber optic services, alongside establishing the campus’s internal utility networks.

The Arkansas State University Campus Querétaro Project has delivered numerous benefits and positive outcomes. Firstly, it has created a strong bridge between Mexican society and the American university system, enhancing educational and cultural exchanges. The project has significantly boosted the Bajío region’s economic and industrial profile, attracting attention nationwide by integrating an American university into its educational landscape. Environmental conservation and sustainability were key focuses, with measures in place to protect indigenous flora and minimize the environmental footprint by reusing excavated materials and utilizing treated wastewater for irrigation. These efforts underscore a comprehensive approach to development, blending educational advancement with environmental stewardship.