Rogers State University has finalized plans to construct a major student housing complex on its main campus in Claremore.
RSU recently closed on an agreement with Century Development Corporation of Houston, allowing the project to enter the construction phase.
“This is a major step in transforming our main campus into a residential university,” said RSU President Dr. Joe Wiley.
Earlier this year, the Claremore Industrial and Redevelopment Authority approved the issuance of 34-year revenue bonds to fund the construction of the $8.3 million facility.
“This new student housing complex will be one of the best in the state, providing connections to the campus computer network in every room and all the amenities of a luxury apartment at an affordable cost to students,” Wiley added.
Completion is scheduled for August 1, allowing students to move in for the fall 2001 semester.
Century Development Corporation has selected ShreveLand Construction of Shreveport, La., to construct the complex. The company’s subsidiary, Century Campus Housing Management, will manage the facility after it is completed.
The complex will be constructed on the western side of RSU’s main campus, just north of the entrance of the Conservation Education Reserve.
The three-story structure will feature a neo-Georgian design with columns in keeping with the architectural theme of the university’s other historic buildings, a pitched roof, and a facade of red brick with native limestone rock accents.
The complex will accommodate 248 students in fully furnished private suites containing four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living area, and kitchen. Entrances to each suite will be located in the interior of the facility.
Each bedroom will contain outlets for a telephone and cable television, and will be fully wired for Internet access.
The suites will be located in two L-shaped wings, connected by a 5,761-square-foot commons building that will include a computer laboratory, study rooms, laundry facility, kitchenette, and a large multipurpose room with a large-screen television for the use of all residents.
The complex also will feature a swimming pool, an outdoor sand volleyball court, and a covered picnic facility.
The building will be secured by gates at all entryways, exterior security lighting, and security cameras throughout the building and grounds. Entry will be restricted to residents with security access codes.
Currently, approximately 70 students reside in RSU’s two existing residence halls – Downs Hall and Ledbetter Hall. Those facilities will remain open after the new complex is completed.
Applications for residence at the new facility are now being accepted at RSU’s Office of Residence Life, located in Post Hall.
Several student resident assistants will live in the facility. The staff of the management company will work in offices in the main commons building.
The university’s maintenance office will be relocated to the northwestern side of the campus near the National Guard Armory to accommodate the new facility.
For more information about student housing at RSU, call the Office of Residence Life at (918) 343-7567.