ITHACA, NY – EdR, a leader in the ownership, development and management of quality collegiate housing, announced that the finance and buildings and properties committees of the Cornell University Board of Trustees recently approved EdR to develop, finance and construct on-campus housing tailored for graduate and professional students. EdR will also manage the more than $80 million community upon its targeted summer 2018 completion.
The housing will be built on the site of the university's 356-bed Maplewood Park Apartments, which were built in 1989. Cornell decided to replace the buildings after researching and comparing the costs for repairs and upgrades to the benefits of the new partnership.
While its exact layout, including building and unit types, have not been finalized, it is expected that the new complex will consist of approximately 850 beds in a variety of floor plans along with amenities necessary for today's graduate and professional students.
Cornell and EdR have executed a pre-closing agreement, and design and site planning are under way toward an expected fall 2016 groundbreaking and commencement of construction.
"We look forward to working with the Cornell University team and local communities on this exciting partnership," said Tom Trubiana, EdR's president. "Working together, we will deliver high-quality, sustainable and affordable housing that fosters a sense of community, and provides a living environment that supports Cornell students' pursuit of their advanced degrees and academic goals."
A member of the Ivy League, Cornell University reports a graduate and professional student full-time enrollment of 7,589 within its total 21,904 enrollees for the 2015-16 school year. The Ithaca, New York, housing market is one of the strongest in the country with a 99.5% occupancy rate.
Jeremy Thomas, Cornell's senior director of real estate, noted in the university's press release announcing the project partnership that "EdR is known for its on-campus revitalization and innovation efforts, constructing quality, long-lasting and sustainable buildings and developments that meet the expectations of today's students."