MOSCOW, Idaho — The University of Idaho will begin construction on new housing at the university's South Hill following the approval of a $162 million building project.
The project was approved by the Idaho State Board of Education at a special meeting on Thursday and includes the development of new housing units as well as renovations to existing undergraduate facilities, including the Wallace Residential Complex, Theophilus Tower and the Elmwood Apartments.
"We continue to see enrollment growth, underscoring the University of Idaho’s value," said University President Scott Green. "Our on-campus housing is an essential part of that value, and our students deserve modern living and learning environments."
The university says utility and street preparation on South Hill has already been underway for several months. The South Hill apartments were built in 1970 and have already seen some units demolished or taken out of service.
Students residing in the Elmwood Apartments were informed last spring that, while their housing contracts would not be renewed, they would have the option to sign new contracts for available apartments in an unaffected area of South Hill. This move is in preparation for the demolition of the aging apartments, which currently house 431 beds and the construction of new units featuring 251 single-student beds and 150 married or parenting student beds.
The new development will also include a community center. These new apartments are slated to open in August 2026 and the project will be funded through bonds over the long term.
"As we move closer to achieving R1 Carnegie Research status, providing high-quality housing for graduate students and families becomes essential to supporting their educational goals," said Cami McClure, associate vice president for Auxiliary Services, which oversees university housing.
Renovations to the Theophilus Tower and Wallace Complex will be carried out in phases, with completion expected between August 2025 and August 2027.
Theophilus Tower was built in 1969 and has not seen major renovations since its construction, while Wallace Complex, built in 1963, last underwent substantial renovations in parts of the building in 2021.
The university has also received approval to enter into a development agreement with Gilbane Development Co., which will serve as the lead contractor for the project.