Trent University has officially broken ground on Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee College residence, marking the beginning of one of the largest infrastructure developments for both the University and the Peterborough area since Trent's founding in 1964.
"We are about to embark on a defining chapter at Trent University," said Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice-chancellor. "Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee residence will offer modern, inclusive spaces where students live, learn, and form lasting connections. It's our most ambitious campus project yet. This new project will contribute tremendously to Trent's vibrant learning and living environment."
Slated to open in fall 2028, the 700,000 square-foot multi-year transformation for the East Bank of Symons Campus is guided by the University's Housing Strategy reflecting evolving student needs and future proofing Trent for continued growth in demand for the collegiate learning environment and leading academic programs.
Trent University's Housing Strategy, approved by the Board in 2019, is a long-term plan to modernize on- and off-campus housing, improve its accessibility, support the University's growth and City's housing needs. Trent is positioned to contribute up to 32 percent of the City of Peterborough's housing target of 4,700 new homes by 2031, through the addition of 1,300 beds between Gidigaa Migizi College and the new OC residence, as well as other strategic and creative housing solutions, including the addition of a 224-bed long-term care home on campus.
"Today's groundbreaking marks a major milestone in our journey to create a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable campus," said Tariq Al-idrissi, vice-president of finance and administration. "These buildings will meet the needs of a growing student body while reflecting Trent's vision for education, and community placemaking."
Awe-Inspiring Architecture
The designs for Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee College Residence represent a contemporary evolution of Trent University's architectural legacy, one that honours the vision of founding architect Ron Thom while embracing the values that define Trent today: sustainability, inclusivity, and a student-centred learning environment.
In collaboration with project partners Knightstone Capital Management, Diamond Schmitt Architects, and Two Row Architects, Trent has created spaces that reflect and reinforce its reputation as a national leader in transformative learning, collegiate student experiences, and environmental stewardship.
Gidigaa Migizi College is named for the late Elder, alumnus, and professor Doug Williams (whose Anishinaabe name means Spotted Eagle) and will be home to integrated academic, residential, and social spaces designed to foster community and support student success. The building will include two flexible lecture halls, a rooftop amenity space with panoramic views, and a Student Services Hub offering a central point of service for students to access information, support and referrals for specialized services. The use of natural materials like wood and stone, organic shapes, and extensive sightlines to the outdoors is based on Indigenous design principles informed by engagement with the First Peoples House of Learning at Trent, the Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies, the Trent Elders Council and members of the Michi Saagiig First Nations. Features such as storytelling space, smudging areas, and symbols of cultural significance, including the pike and eagle, honour the land and stories that shape the Trent community.
Designed with accessibility at its core, the new Otonabee College Residence will house more than 600 beds, and include indoor connections to existing dining facilities. Signature red metal accents will pay tribute to the original college, while its pedestrian-friendly design and outdoor communal quad will create new spaces for connection and reflection.
Together, both buildings create a cohesive linear campus experience, unified by softscaping, shade trees, and the continuation of the historic Midland Rail line in the paving pattern, blending indoor and outdoor space in a way that supports both learning and belonging.
Environmentally, the project marks a major milestone in Trent's sustainability leadership. Both buildings are targeting LEED Gold certification, supported by a geothermal heating and cooling system and designs projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent from the National Energy Code 2017 baseline. These spaces are more than buildings they are an embodiment of Trent's boldest ambitions: to lead through responsible growth, to honour place and people, and to create inclusive environments where students thrive.
A Year of Transformation
The remainder of this year will see visible transformation across the East Bank as early site servicing and preparation for tapping geothermal resources will begin later this summer, setting the stage for a three-year construction.
Visit Trent's Campus Projects Hub website for photos from the ceremony, project renderings and regular project updates.
