First U-M-Flint residence hall design gets regents' nod

The Board of Regents April 19 approved the design of a student housing project for U-M-Flint.

(Photo courtesy Neuman/Smith & Associates)

Flint's first residence hall will be approximately 100,000 gross square feet and will include about 310 beds with living-learning spaces on the first floor. The facility is different from the traditional residence halls found on many college campuses. It will feature one-, two- and four-bedroom living spaces, including handicapped-accessible units. Each unit will contain one or two bathrooms, a kitchen and living room.

"This beautiful, state-of-the-art housing for students will enhance the campus, while helping U-M-Flint achieve its goal of increasing enrollment," President Mary Sue Coleman said.

The regents approved the U-M-Flint Student Housing Facility project and the appointment of Neumann/Smith & Associates for its design at the October 2006 meeting. The firm specializes in designing residence halls for a number of major state universities.

"The affirmative vote on Flint housing is exciting for the Flint campus, the Flint community, and for the University of Michigan. It is exciting for me as a regent and, especially as someone who lives in and cares about the Flint community," said Regent Chair Olivia Maynard. "University housing in downtown Flint will be a part of the vitality of downtown and beyond."

The estimated cost of the project is $21.3 million. Funding will be provided from U-M-Flint resources, gifts and grants. Construction is scheduled to be completed in summer 2008.

The site for the project is Parking Lot G, which comprises approximately 5.25 acres and is situated on the southern edge of the campus adjacent to First Street and Willson Park. The new residence hall will feature a 24/7 staffed entry way, with special cards that will be required for entrance into the building. A manual is being developed which will outline all policies and expectations including health and wellness guidelines. Additional requirements are being studied that may be needed, and those additions will be in place by August 2008.

"While it has been discussed for several years, the reality of on-campus student housing will now allow the University to attract students from beyond its traditional commuter range," said Acting Chancellor Jack Kay. "In addition, it will help change the character, and transform the campus by enriching student lives in a variety of academic and non-academic ways."

U-M-Flint adopted a strategic plan to grow enrollment from 6,500 to 8,000 students by 2010. A key element of this plan is to create the option for a residential experience for its students.