For 2195-T8 plate, design properties are based on the mechanical properties at the near surface location, corresponding to the load carrying thin membrane location in machined integrally stiffened structure. Mechanical properties at the near surface location are lower than those at the t/4 and t/2 locations. This work examined the effect of alternate temper and hot rolling practices on near surface strength levels. Results showed that alternate hot rolling practice were very effective in raising near surface strengths and improving property uniformity, and were well correlated with crystallographic texture measurements.