Construction of a new four-storey building is currently underway at Thompson Rivers University’s (TRU) Kamloops campus. The project is being built on a portion of the vacant land north of the existing student housing — TRU’s East Village — on Dalgleish Drive. Once completed, the permanent modular housing will contain 80 single- and double-occupancy rooms, enough for 148 students.

Set for completion by the summer of 2023, this development is Phase 1 of a three-phase plan for the university to build three student-housing buildings. To support this plan, the modular student housing project includes site preparation for future student housing, including utility relocation and paving the parking lot.

The project was made possible with $10.85 million from the province, with TRU contributing $7.91 million toward the total project cost of $18.76 million.

“On-campus student housing at TRU is always in high demand. This housing project will provide students with an extremely attractive and affordable option. These new units will also help to alleviate pressure on the rental market in Kamloops, which benefits the whole community,” says TRU president Brett Fairbairn. “We are grateful to the province for their significant investment in this student housing project.”

All rooms will have a kitchenette and bathroom. Each interconnected floor will include a common space ideal for gatherings, collaboration or study. Students will have access to 38 outdoor parking spaces, including one handicapped-accessible stall, 40 enclosed bike spaces and two electric vehicle chargers. The area will also feature well-maintained green space, stunning mountain views and a multi-use pathway connecting Summit Drive and Dalgleish Drive.

The B.C. government is investing in this student housing project as part of Homes for BC, a 10-year housing plan to build 114,00 units throughout the province by 2028.