In the coming spring, UC Merced and Merced College are embarking on an exciting venture to address a pressing need for student housing in their community. Together, they are spearheading the construction of a contemporary apartment-style building that will accommodate approximately 500 students. What sets this UC Merced and Merced College joint student housing apart is its unique nature, as it is entirely funded by a $100 million allocation from the state’s general fund. This innovative collaboration marks a pivotalhttps://www.mccd.edu/https://www.mccd.edu/ moment in the history of education in California, where a University of California campus and a California Community College have joined forces to provide much-needed student housing.
The driving force behind this initiative is a dedicated duo: UC Merced Chancellor Juan Sanchez Muñoz and Merced College President Chris Vitellito. Their unwavering commitment to tackling the acute student housing shortage, particularly affecting students with below-average incomes, has paved the way for this transformative endeavor.
Read also: Net zero student housing community opened at UC Davis in California, US
At the heart of this UC Merced and Merced College joint student housing lies “The Merced Promise,” a collaborative effort between Merced College and UC Merced. This initiative aims to facilitate a seamless transition for students progressing from the community college to the university. The new facility will feature a diverse range of student housing options, including studios, two-bedroom, and four-bedroom apartments. It will also boast a tranquil shaded courtyard and open-air meeting spaces, transforming the campus experience for students.
When will the UC Merced and Merced College joint Student housing be finished
The eagerly anticipated Joint Student housing project by UC Merced and Merced College is set to be finalized in 2025. On August 30, the state Legislature granted its resounding approval for the project’s funding, splitting the funds equally between the two institutions.
Students residing in this complex will enjoy the full benefits of on-campus life, including access to UC Merced sports events, the recreational center, and the dining hall. This enticing offering aims to retain students who might otherwise consider leaving the area to pursue their education elsewhere. Furthermore, an office of administrative services within the student housing project will streamline services for transfer students, fostering a smoother academic journey. There are even discussions about relocating the transfer center closer to the project.
