The University of Northern Iowa is requesting that the Board of Regents purchase a nearby housing complex

Cedar Falls, Iowa – The University of Northern Iowa is requesting approval from the Iowa Board of Regents to purchase a nearby housing complex for $21.2 million.

The purchase will be on the agenda at the Board of Regents meeting on Wednesday.

Located along West 27th Street, close to Hudson Road, the 10-acre Quarters Apartment Complex has space for up to 480 inhabitants. The UNI-Dome and UNI’s McLeod Center are located directly across the street.

The fact that UNI has observed a greater success rate for students who live on campus is one of the reasons they wish to buy apartments. Due to student interest in apartment-style accommodation, the school has observed a rise in the number of students signing housing contracts.

Pete Moris, Director of University Relations, stated, “This is another way that we’re trying to respond to the needs of our students here at you and I and be a more attractive destination for future students.”

Additionally, UNI is requesting that the board authorize financing for the demolition of Campbell Hall. Three years have passed since that building’s 75th anniversary of opening. It is not ADA compliant, has no fire sprinkler system, and has estimated deferred maintenance bills of $27 million. It would cost $3.8 million to destroy.

“So, in essence, we’re taking a space that isn’t very modern and that can’t be economically modernized and using those dollars to go ahead and get something that students really want,” Moris explained.

According to Moris, the school intends to respect the leases that are in effect at The Quarters. Other than UNI decorations, no significant renovations are planned for the school if the purchase is authorized.

Today’s agenda items for the Board of Regents include the purchase of The Quarters and the demolition of Campbell Hall.