University of Arizona Begins Construction on New On-Campus Dormitory
In a significant move to enhance student life, the University of Arizona has commenced construction on a new residential facility named The Catalina. The project, developed in collaboration with Mortenson, Mortenson Development, and the Collegiate Housing Foundation, aims to establish a vibrant community setting for students by the fall of 2028.
The Catalina, a nine-story residence hall, will accommodate over 1,300 students and include a dining hall. It is designed to meet student demand for suite-style living and access to various support services. The dormitory aligns with the university’s policy requiring first-year students to reside on campus starting in fall 2026, with some exceptions for those living nearby or facing specific challenges.
A rendering of The Catalina dorm from the corner of East Speedway Boulevard and North Campbell Avenue.
University President Suresh Garimella highlighted the significance of on-campus living for student success: “Success for every student is our North Star, and the connection between living on campus and graduating on time is undeniable,” he said. “Our students who live on campus for at least one year have a 50% higher four-year graduation rate than those who never do. The Catalina is designed around that fact and what our Wildcats have told us they need.”
The project advanced from initial discussions to groundbreaking in just seven months, underscoring a coordinated effort to address student housing demands and support the university’s vision for student success and academic achievement.
A rendering of The Catalina dorm from the corner of East Helen Street and North Campbell Avenue.
Delivered through a strategic partnership, the project leverages Mortenson’s expertise in development, design, construction, and financing. The financing structure, facilitated in partnership with the Collegiate Housing Foundation and RBC Capital Markets, enables the university to expand housing facilities while maintaining financial flexibility, with a pathway to future ownership.
Will Givhan, president of Collegiate Housing Foundation, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration: “Collegiate Housing Foundation is pleased to be able to work with Mortenson and RBC to assist the University of Arizona by financing, owning and operating a new on-campus residence hall thereby making it the 73rd addition to CHF’s portfolio since it began operations in 1996.”
To expedite the project timeline, Mortenson Development acquired the site three months ahead of schedule, facilitating early demolition and site preparation.
George Forristall, vice president of real estate development at Mortenson, remarked, “This project demonstrates what is possible when a university and its development partners align around a shared goal and act with urgency. We are proud to work alongside the University of Arizona and Collegiate Housing Foundation to deliver a customized solution that advances the university’s housing strategy while creating a high-quality residential environment for students.”
Once completed, The Catalina will offer modern facilities designed to promote community, belonging, and academic success. The project is anticipated to be ready by fall 2028.
See more scenes from the groundbreaking ceremony in a U of A News photo gallery.
Read More Here
Comments are closed.