British Columbia Invests $178M in UVic High-Density Student Housing

The University of Victoria (UVic) is set to expand its on-campus housing options with a new high-density student accommodation project. The British Columbia Government has announced an investment of approximately $178 million to construct 510 beds aimed at upper-year undergraduate and graduate students. This initiative seeks to address ongoing issues of housing affordability and availability for students, which often result in long commutes and less time spent on campus.

The provincial government is contributing $121 million to the project, while UVic will provide the remaining $57 million. According to Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure, this development aims to alleviate pressure on the local rental market. “With over 500 new beds on campus, more students can learn closer to home while relieving pressure on the local rental market,” Ma stated.

Project Details and Design Features

The planned development includes a 17-storey high-rise tower alongside a seven-storey mid-rise structure located along the Campus Greenway. The housing will feature a variety of apartment-style units, including studio and four-bedroom options, designed with compact layouts to maximize outdoor spaces, seating areas, and bike parking. Notably, the adjacent wing will house 150 studio apartments specifically for graduate students.

Public transportation access is also a priority, as the housing units will be situated within 400 meters of the UVic Transit Exchange, enhancing connectivity for residents.

Community and Educational Impact

Grace Lore, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Victoria-Beacon Hill, emphasized the importance of this project in supporting both students and the community. “Affordable, accessible housing is key to student success. By expanding on-campus options at UVic, we’re not only supporting learners, we’re also helping to reduce demand on the broader rental market,” Lore stated.

The acting president and vice-chancellor of UVic, Robina Thomas, noted that the new housing will significantly ease the challenges students face in finding affordable accommodations. “Living on campus gives students better access to academic and wellness supports and strengthens their connections to peers, which allows them to help focus on what matters, their education,” Thomas remarked.

Since 2018, the British Columbia government has committed $2 billion towards building on-campus student housing across post-secondary institutions in the province. To date, nearly 6,900 student housing beds have been constructed, with an additional 4,800 beds currently underway.

The public has until October 13 to provide feedback on the housing project through an online survey. Construction is anticipated to commence in spring 2026, marking a significant step forward in addressing student housing needs at UVic. For more information, visit the University of Victoria’s official website.