Capilano University is building its first on-campus housing, creating 362 beds and a 250-seat dining hall at the main campus in North Vancouver.

The province is providing $41.5 million toward the $58.2-million project. Capilano University is investing $16.7 million in the project. Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2023 and complete in late 2024.

“We know how stressful it is for some students who are unable to find housing and are balancing long commutes on top of their schoolwork,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training. “To make life easier for students, we are building thousands of student housing spaces throughout the province. The first-of-its-kind new on-campus housing at Capilano University will help ease those pressures, ensuring more students can focus on their schoolwork knowing their housing is secure.”

Designated for first- and second-year students, there will be priority access for Indigenous students. The six-storey building will include common space, laundry facilities, a First Nations-focused reflection and gathering space, and a dining hall on the main level. The other five floors include a mix of single- and double-occupancy rooms, 12 of which will be accessible units.

“Offering on-campus student housing marks a major step forward for Capilano University,” said Paul Dangerfield, president, Capilano University. “Creating this opportunity for learners to live where they study will bring a pivotal revitalization to our main campus, reduce housing barriers and enhance the experience for student residents.”

This project is part of the Provincial Homes for BC plan, which includes building 8,000 new student beds by 2028 so more people studying in B.C. can have affordable housing alternatives to pursue post-secondary education.

Aligned with the Province’s CleanBC plan, the building will be built with wood framing and mass timber. The dining hall will be built with mass timber and feature a green roof.