University Satellite Housing Expands to Meet Growth, Need

The initial number of satellite housing units set aside for incoming Texas A&M International University students has been assigned and the University will now expand its satellite housing. The move to satellite, or off-campus housing, was prompted by 100% occupancy of the existing 250-slots at the on-campus University Village.

Dr. Tom Corti, dean of Student Services, said the 20 additional units set aside for students have been assigned and the University will now expand its satellite housing.

"Our enrollment growth has enabled us to meet that first level and we'll now move to our Phase II plan of an additional 50 units," Dr. Corti explained.

"We've been fortunate to establish a relationship with a local apartment house owner of properties nearby on Jacaman Road that will follow similar housing guidelines, costs and standards as our on-campus housing. Students living in the TAMIU satellite housing will be considered part of University housing. In addition, the University will be providing shuttle service from the satellite housing to the campus, " Corti said.

University Village, a privatized effort run on campus for TAMIU by American Campus Communities, opened in 1997 and has seen occupancy grow steadily. The $5.1 million facility features 84 apartment units. Among amenities are a pool, beach volleyball court, community center, computer lab and on-site laundry.

The University recently completed a survey to help it assess the need to construct additional housing on campus and is compiling survey results.

"As part of the required process for future construction consideration, we conducted an online survey of students who have registered any time since Fall 2001 to help us gauge the need for on-campus housing. We hope to shortly share the survey results with the governing Texas A&M University System Board of Regents for their consideration at their September meeting," he explained.

If approved, the new residence complex would take approximately 12-16 months to construct, he said.

Registration for the Fall Semester is Friday, Aug. 23. Classes begin Monday, Aug. 26. Late registration, with late fees assessed, continues through Aug. 30.

For additional information on student housing, please contact University Village at 326.0160.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu