Construction on Florida Poly’s Second Residence Hall Underway

Florida Polytechnic University is building a second on-campus residence hall for students, scheduled to be complete by fall 2016. Jacksonville-based Vestcor Communities, Inc. will build and operate the five-story, 135,000-square-foot dormitory with 539 beds, primarily in two-bedroom, one-bath suites.
Community and University officials gathered Wednesday to mark an important construction milestone during a “Goin’ Vertical” celebration held at the build site. Construction officially began on the facility in June 2015.

“Florida Poly students will soon have another modern, stylish and safe housing option just steps from the main classroom building,” said University President Dr. Randy K. Avent. “Our campus and our offerings are growing, and this dormitory helps us meet the demands of the first-rate students we’re recruiting.”
Designed to be comfortable, secure and fully furnished, the suites will have the latest technology and accommodations to help students learn and grow outside the classroom. Each floor will include study and conference rooms, as well as resident lounges with full kitchens. An ultra-modern community center, entertainment room, gaming area and computer center provide additional options for studying and socializing. The facility also includes a swimming pool, volleyball courts and a recreation area.

“We are proud to be a part of the growth and excitement of Florida Poly,” said The Vestcor Companies, Inc. Chairman John D. Rood. “Like the first residence hall, this second facility fits aesthetically into the University’s master plan and gives students the feeling of apartment-style living on campus. The amenities and safety features are particularly appealing to students and their parents.”

Florida Poly’s first residence hall opened to students in August 2014. It is also owned and operated by Vestcor. Both the existing residence hall and the new facility are structured as public-private partnerships in which Vestcor bears all responsibility and risk associated with financing, designing, building, furnishing, operating and maintaining the facilities over the term of a long-term land lease.

The University will begin accepting applications for the residence hall for fall 2016 on October 1, 2015.