A preliminary site plan of the new student housing development shows the Willams Building (centre) surrounded by multi-storey residences.
Supplied by Facilities Management Division

Richard Florizone, vice-president finance and resources, confirmed the Board of Governors gave its approval to the location, budget and design of the 400-bed project Oct. 9. The board also granted the university permission to arrange about $20 million in external loan financing which will be repaid from rental income over the next 25 years.

“We're in the final stages of finalizing the agreement with Meridian,” Florizone said, “and we want to get in there and do site preparation as soon as possible. Our goal is at least partial occupancy next fall.”

To be located south and east of the Williams Building on Cumberland Avenue, the first phase of the housing complex will include two multi-storey buildings made up of 10 one-bed units, 10 two-bed units, 10 three-bed units and 85 four-bed units. Other amenities will include laundry facilities, study rooms, a lounge, garbage recycling and bicycle storage.

Find out more about the new student residences in On Campus News