Growth spurs major Williams Hall Renovation Project

Increased residential enrollment has spurred the University to begin a major renovation of its 132-room Williams Hall, with work on the $5.9 million project to begin Nov. 7 and the housing available to incoming freshmen beginning fall 2017.

The project will include all new study rooms and recreation areas, a community kitchen and laundry facilities, as well as all new finishes throughout. The Stellar Group of Jacksonville is the contractor, with architecture by Cho Benn Holback and Associates Inc. of Baltimore.

“Investing in the residential experience by creating innovative living and learning spaces is a key element in our goal to enhance the student experience, both from a co-curricular perspective and academically,” said Kristie Gover, Senior Vice President for Student Affairs.

The improvements come after a boost in admissions of new incoming students, as the JU has seen double-digit freshman enrollment growth over the last three years, to the point it is nearing its housing capacity.

This fall, a full-service Starbucks opened in the Kinne University Center, helping mark an historic period of growth and development aimed at students. The reimagined River House gathering spot, new 274-bed North Hall first-year student residence, substantial investments to the lobby and lounges of Oak Hall, a completely renovated fitness center and new active learning lounge in the Davis Student Commons, a Chick fil-A location and extensive renovations to the Riverview Café are all examples of the University’s continued investment in enhancing the experience of its growing on-campus community.