The University of Guelph is working to develop a new on-campus student residence building for first-year students. The new residence is a major commitment to expanding the support U of G provides to students as the University sees an increase in demand for a U of G education and seeks to strategically grow enrolment.
The University has earmarked a vacant plot of land at the intersection of College Ave W and McGilvray St for the residence, which will be the first new student housing development on the University's main campus in 25 years. The site provides a convenient location for students to get to classes and other on-campus amenities and is in close proximity to existing student housing as well as the required infrastructure for the new development.
Rendering of planned residence building at College Ave W and McGilvray St (Rendering is an early artistic concept and is subject to change).
The early conceptual designs envision two buildings on the site that could accommodate up to 1,500 students total in six different unit types. The common first floor would contain a prominent lobby, dining hall and kitchen, meeting and multi-purpose rooms, laundry facilities, and storage for bicycles, sports equipment and more. The new residence will be fully accessible and sustainably designed to support the University's goal to transform campus towards net zero carbon emissions by 2040.
"We're thrilled to be working on building and opening this designated first-year student residence that will provide students with a modern, comfortable and inclusive living environment," says Ed Townsley, associate vice-president (ancillary services). "This new facility will be a testament to our commitment to enhancing the student experience and supporting their academic and personal growth."
University aims to open the residence within the next four to five years
U of G has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for an architect to lead the design development and help oversee construction. The successful proponent will work closely with the University to bring forward a design for the residence and a business case to the Board of Governors for approval. The U of G community and key external stakeholders will be engaged as part of the design and development process.
The University is seeking to fast track the project and hopes to open the building for occupancy within the next four to five years. The new residence will support U of G's strategic enrolment growth, which is required to ensure the University is financially sustainable and can continue supporting academic and research excellence as well as an enriched student experience.
U of G intensifying current housing inventory for fall 2025
U of G's Student Housing Services is working towards adding up to 250 more beds for first-year students in time for fall 2025 to help meet demand. The University has also changed its process and communications for residence guarantees to provide greater clarity to prospective first-year students and their parents.
This year, residence will be guaranteed for Ontario secondary school students who receive an offer of admission by March 1, 2025. To secure this guarantee, these students must complete their residence application on or before April 15, 2025. Previous residence guarantees for international and out-of-province students as well as those who deferred their offer of admission from the 2024/25 school year remain in effect. More information is available on the Student Housing website.
"Demand for a university education continues to increase and we're especially seeing a high level of demand for the unique academic and student experience that U of G provides," says Byron Sheldrick, associate vice-president (academic). "We're investing in the supports needed to help students succeed as we see U of G continue on a growth trajectory in its near and long-term future."
U of G continues to seek partnerships in the community to immediately increase student housing capacity for first-year students. In addition, the University is advancing work to support the development of new upper-year student, graduate student and family housing. More information on these future plans will be shared in the coming months.
