EUGENE–Single graduate students looking for a more serene living environment on the University of Oregon campus soon may have some new options.

The university’s Campus Planning Committee recently approved plans for a new apartment complex designed expressly for single graduate students. The project is slated for construction on a site between Moss and Villard streets on East 15th Ave. and is designed to include 70 one-bedroom and studio units, all with Internet access. The gLas Architectural Group of Eugene is designing the project.

"The concept for single-unit apartments targeted for graduate students came out of a brainstorming session I had with the UO law school’s director of admissions," says Mike Eyster,
UO housing director. "I then had several meetings with housing staff and graduate students and it became clear that having quiet and affordable housing for the mature, single graduate student is something we need at the UO."

The project now goes before the State Board of Higher Education for approval on June 18. The UO is proposing that the $4.5 million project be financed with state bonds, which would be repaid with rent revenue generated from the complex. If approved, site preparation will begin in the fall and construction will get underway in December. The complex is targeted for occupancy in fall 2001.

Rental rates for the new apartments have not been determined, but Eyster says they will be below market rates.

—30—

#O-4088/Local,PDX,Salem