Carson-Newman University Starts Construction on Residence Hall

  • By Matt Jones
  • 07/13/23

On the campus of Carson-Newman University in Jefferson City, Tenn., construction on a new residence hall has officially begun. Local news reports that the housing facility, West Campus Commons, marks the largest construction project in university history. It will measure in at more than 110,000 square feet and is scheduled to open its doors to students in fall 2024.

The university partnered with developer University Housing Solutions and architecture firm Barber McMurry Architects to design the new facility against the backdrop of a larger, 20-year master plan. Two buildings will hold a total of 524 beds and will be joined together via a two-story “Community Connector,” according to local news. The facility will also include amenities like gathering, gaming, and study spaces.

A groundbreaking ceremony for the project took place in April. The project is part of a five-year strategic plan called “Acorns to Oaks: Pursuing God’s Preferred Future,” according to a university news release. Other facets of that initiative include construction of the Drama and Ted Russell Center, which is scheduled to open this fall and play home to the university’s nursing department.

“I especially would like to thank the Board of Trustees, whose decisions regarding our strategic plan and 20-year master plan paved the way to consider this new residence life facility,” said University President Charles A. Fowler. “We look forward to seeing this exciting project take form over the coming months and benefitting Carson-Newman students for years.”

Local news reports that the facility will include security features like cameras and keycard access. It will play home to a resident assistant on each floor and a residence director who lives on site.

A university news release from February announcing the project also indicates that the residence hall will also include laundry facilities on each floor of each wing. Student representatives and the university’s dining services partner are currently having conversations about dining options for new residents.

“Carson-Newman desires to provide spaces and places for students to live and study that are marked by excellence,” Fowler said.  “This new residence life facility reflects our heart for Christian community and our commitment to excellence.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

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