Construction is booming at Colorado Mesa University (CMU), with around $100 million in projects underway this year. This includes new student housing and a food hall, aimed at enhancing campus life and making education more affordable.
CMU President John Marshall emphasizes that the university’s growth isn’t just about expansion. It’s about creating a more accessible college experience for students. He noted how the financial gap has widened between families and many private colleges, leaving families worried about their children’s education. “We want to keep that pathway open,” Marshall shared.
In recent years, rising housing costs in Mesa County have squeezed students, who used to find affordable housing at CMU. “We’ve lost our edge in pricing,” Marshall explained, as rental prices soared. This trend has made it tougher for students to find affordable living options off-campus, pushing more of them to seek housing on campus.
To tackle these issues, CMU is building Centennial Village, a new residence hall that will offer 310 beds in apartment-style units. It’s designed primarily for sophomores and upperclassmen, with the aim of freeing up space for freshmen. Construction is already underway near the newly established Asteria Theater, and Marshall emphasizes the importance of cost management in this project. “We want to ensure this is one of the most efficient complexes we’ve ever built,” he said.
The demand for on-campus living is growing, especially among upperclassmen. For the first time, many juniors and seniors are struggling to find affordable housing. “We’ve almost never had upperclassmen living on campus,” Marshall noted. The university may need to build even more housing shortly after the completion of the Centennial Village to meet this increasing demand.
The Centennial Village is part of a larger initiative called the Formation District, which will transform the southwest corner of the campus. This area will include a food hall, designed to blend retail and dining to serve students and the local community. Marshall envisions this project as a way to integrate CMU more deeply into the region’s culture.
In addition to the new housing and food court, CMU is also investing in its arts facilities. A $15 million renovation of the Moss Performing Arts Center is planned to upgrade academic spaces for arts students. The university is also creating an art walk and outdoor geology lab to enhance outdoor learning experiences.
As part of its 100th-anniversary celebration, CMU is renovating a historic house called the 1925 House, which will serve as a venue for community and university events. “It captures the spirit of our beginnings,” Marshall said, hoping it will connect the campus with the community.
In light of climate commitments, CMU is also expanding its geothermal energy system, which aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
All these developments reflect CMU’s commitment to providing a supportive environment for students while paying homage to its rich history. As the school approaches its centennial, the focus remains on not just growth, but on fostering a strong, inclusive community.
For more information on CMU’s projects and initiatives, visit their official site here.
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