Algoma University announced it will build a new 500-plus bed student residence in Brampton, a concrete step towards easing the housing crunch.
"Every student deserves a safe, affordable place to call home," said Algoma University President and Vice-Chancellor Asima Vezina. "With a new student residence, Algoma University is investing in our students and also investing in Brampton, where we're growing deep roots."
Located at Park Street and Nelson Street West, a short walk to Algoma University classrooms, the Brampton Algoma U student residence will include between 500 and 600 beds in a mix of single and double bedrooms in four- to six-bed suites. Each suite will include two bathrooms, a kitchen and living space. Developed in partnership with Greenwin Corp. and Sweeny&Co., the student residence will be designed to be a decolonized and Indigenized space in keeping with Algoma University's Special Mission, which fosters cross-cultural education between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Algoma University students are expected to be able to move into the building for the 2028-29 school year, but recent federal and provincial policy changes on building student housing are likely to expedite construction, and the move-in date.
Vezina was joined by Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown, representatives from the provincial and federal governments, developer Greenwin, and community leaders at Tuesday's announcement, and thanked him for Brampton's unwavering support for and partnership with Algoma University.
"The Brampton Algoma University campus is a unique, urban option for students that offers comprehensive services and facilities in a way that's really integrated with the neighbourhood and the community," said Vezina.
"As a part of building a comprehensive campus in Brampton's downtown, our goal is to wrap students in support and services, from free mental health care and free tutoring to student life and recreation, and so much more. Affordable, safe student housing is the next step, and we are incredibly excited. This residence will give Algoma University students another option for an affordable and safe place to live, it will help foster an even stronger sense of belonging and community, and I am certain it will give parents more peace of mind, knowing that their loved one is being given everything they need to thrive."
The new Algoma University student residence will be a secure building for Algoma University students only, staffed by Algoma University Residence Life staff. Fees will range from $700 to $1,300 per student per month, depending on room type.
A student housing marketing and demand analysis conducted by Scion Advisory Services for Algoma University concluded that the university will need between 222 and 244 student residence beds in Brampton by 2025.
Very conservative projections show Algoma University will have a $1.5-billion economic impact in Brampton by 202, and every year beyond that, the university's annual economic impact in the city will exceed $280 million. With seven buildings so far, most surrounding Garden Square, Algoma University has already invested more than $50 million in infrastructure in Brampton.
