$178 Million Investment to Build 510 New Student Beds at UVic

The University of Victoria (UVic) will soon welcome a new high-density student housing project, following a significant investment from the province of British Columbia. The initiative aims to address the pressing challenges of affordability and availability of housing for students, which often leads to lengthy commutes and reduced time on campus.

The total budget for this development is estimated at $178 million, with the provincial government contributing $121 million and UVic providing $57 million. The project will create 510 beds designated for upper-year undergraduate and graduate students.

Project Details and Community Impact

Minister of Infrastructure Bowinn Ma emphasized the importance of this project in meeting the growing demand for housing. “With over 500 new beds on campus, more students can learn closer to home while relieving pressure on the local rental market,” Ma stated. The construction will feature a 17-storey highrise tower alongside a seven-storey mid-rise, both located along the Campus Greenway.

The design plans include a variety of housing options, such as studio and four-bedroom apartment-style units. The compact design aims to preserve outdoor spaces, seating areas, and bike parking. In a separate wing, 150 studio apartment units will be dedicated to graduate students.

Accessibility to public transportation is also a key consideration, with the new housing located within 400 meters of the UVic Transit Exchange.

Support for Student Success

Local MLA Grace Lore labeled the housing project a meaningful investment in both education and the community. “Affordable, accessible housing is key to student success. By expanding on-campus options at UVic, we’re not only supporting learners, we’re also helping to reduce demand on the broader rental market,” Lore remarked.

Robina Thomas, acting president and vice-chancellor of UVic, added that this development would significantly ease students’ struggles in securing affordable housing. “Living on campus gives students better access to academic and wellness supports and strengthens their connections to peers, which allows them to help focus on what matters, their education,” Thomas explained.

The provincial government has committed $2 billion since 2018 to enhance on-campus student housing across British Columbia. So far, nearly 6,900 student housing beds have been constructed, with an additional 4,800 currently in development.

Members of the public can provide feedback on the housing project until October 13, 2023, through an online survey. Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2026, marking a significant step in addressing the housing crisis for students in British Columbia. For more information, visit the University of Victoria’s official site.