Housing project at an Idaho school is moving forward

The board’s approval spurred the start of construction on a project valued at approximately $162 million and will provide much-needed housing relief.

The University of Idaho’s South Hill construction project to house and renovate three additional residence halls was approved Nov. 21 by the Idaho State Board of Education.

The South Hill project will consist of 251 single beds and 150 married/parental beds, a news release said. It will include a Commons community center and is expected to be completed in late summer 2026, in time for the fall semester of that year.

The three other projects are the renovation of the Wallace Residential Complex, Theophilus Tower and the Elmwood Apartments. Wallace and Theophilus will undergo phased renovations, with completion dates between August 2025 and August 2027. Wallace was built in 1963 and Theophilus six years later.

“We continue to see enrollment growth as we continue to demonstrate the value of U of I,” said University of Idaho President Scott Green. “Our on-campus housing is an important part of that value, and our students need and deserve modern living facilities.”

The South Hill project follows the ongoing demolition of the original 431-bed complex built in 1970. Gilbane Development Co. was selected as the prime contractor for the project with board approval.

“As we approach achieving R1 Carnegie Research status, it is imperative that we provide the high-quality accommodations graduate students and families need to continue their educational journey,” said Cami McClue, the department’s assistant vice president for Auxiliary Services, which oversees the school housing.