University of Fraser Valley has appointed Turner Construction Co. and Clark Builders to build a 398-bed student housing community on its Abbotsford, Canada, campus. Construction is slated to begin in early 2023, with occupancy expected to start in the fall of 2024.
Announced in May, the $55.2 million (C$73.7 million) project that will triple the campus’ number of beds is part of a $61.7 million (C$82.3 million) expansion that also incorporates the construction of a dinning hall and the addition of an extra floor to the Cascade Café, an on-campus food service.
The Province of British Columbia is providing $52.7 million (C$62.3 million) in financing for the whole project, with the university covering the rest of the costs. Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training Anne Kang said, in prepared remarks, that the campus expansion is part of the Homes for B.C. plan, a broad approach program that aims to improve affordability throughout the region. On the student housing front, the Government will allocate $337 million (C$450 million) with the goal of delivering more than 8,000 beds by 2028.
A forward-thinking project
Upon completion, the six-story, mass-timber facility will incorporate a study, lounges, shared kitchens, as well as mixed-use and cultural space. To be delivered through the Integrated Project Delivery method, the project is also slated to include sustainable features in order to meet the Passive House Building Certification standards.
Located at 33844 King Road, the campus sits on university grounds and is within walking distance of the Abbotsford Center arena and near the Trans-Canada Highway. The surrounding area incorporates various dining and shopping options. Abbotsford International Airport is roughly 6 miles away.
