Knoxville, Tenn. — State and university authorities would need to OK expanding an already approved plan to build one residence hall to include building seven total structures.
This conceptual rendering, courtesy of
Lord Aeck Sargent, depicts the
character of the proposed
redevelopment.Knoxville, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee is seeking approvals from its board of trustees and the state building commission to replace six residence halls with seven new buildings in the next five years. The estimated $234 million project would replace existing 1960s-era high-rises with three- and four-floor buildings in a village-style, student-focused community.
The university will be asking the boards to expand an already approved residence hall project that involves the demolition of the Shelbourne Towers dorm and the building of a new residence hall on the site. If the expanded plan is approved, UT will build the six new residence halls and one community and dining facility by 2019.
The university updated its plans after consultants helped take a closer look at its goals and plans for extensive renovations to South Carrick, North Carrick, Humes, Reese, Morrill and the Apartment Residence halls. Consultants determined that it is more cost-effective to build new buildings than to renovate existing halls.
The project would be funded through housing and dining revenues. Revenues from the student beautification fee would fund new courtyards, greenways, and outdoor amenities.