What's Happening in Lancaster, OH…

Plans are underway to build student housing near the Lancaster campus of Ohio University.

The housing in question would be privately operated, and would benefit the students who choose to attend the university’s Lancaster branch. According to Dr. Jim Smith, Dean of Ohio University-Lancaster (OU-L), many students decide to attend the Lancaster location because they can remain close to their families and jobs, and tuition is affordable. Smith revealed that the project’s developer came to OU-L and asked if the university’s students would like housing near campus. The developer surveyed students and received a positive response.

The proposed building comprises 16,642 square feet, including a first-floor clubhouse. The planned structure is three stories tall, with 28 two-bedroom units as well as 20 four-bedroom units, giving a total of 136 beds. In addition, the parking lot would have 120 spaces, plus an additional five spaces designated for handicapped parking.

Smith noted that the developer has completed a number of projects, including housing for the Ohio State University campus in Lima. These projects have led to an increase in the student populations on campuses where housing has been built, which Smith calls a “good situation for all involved”.

When construction is underway, university officials might consider working with brochure printers to create a booklet that highlights the available housing, and make the booklet available to high school counselors.