Towson University Builds for a Growing Enrollment

TOWSON, Md. — Towson University is undergoing a slew of construction projects to help accommodate its growing student population. The university currently has an enrollment of 20,000 on-campus students, but expects that number to rise to 25,000 by 2029, according to Bisnow. Here is a roundup of five currently under construction:

West Village Phase III and IV: Estimated for completion later this summer, the $85 million West Village Phase III and IV project includes the construction of two residence halls to accommodate approximately 700 upper-level students. Together, the two buildings will add approximately 325,500 square feet of space to the campus, and include a mix of two- and four-bedroom apartments with single-occupancy rooms and shared bathroom, kitchen and living space. Communal lounges as well as meeting rooms will be located on each floor.

Burdick Expansion: In fall 2017, Burdick Hall will debut a 94,000-square-foot expansion, nearly doubling its size. The $40 million project will feature two multipurpose athletic courts, an indoor running track, a mind and body studio for yoga and Pilates classes, a dedicated cycling studio and a combat studio. An 8,000-square-foot renovation will also update existing offices and the existing fitness center’s mezzanine level.

Newell Dining Hall Renovation: To improve the building’s systems and enable expanded food services, the Newell Dining Hall is undergoing a $7.5 million renovation, scheduled for completion in winter 2017. Additions to the new dining hall include a retail deli and full-service bakery on the second floor as well as expanded action stations, a larger kosher kitchen, and renovated dining and tray return areas.

New Science Building: Plans for a new $184 million science building were announced in early July to help serve the growing number of students enrolling in math, engineering and science courses. Construction on the 316,000-square-foot structure is scheduled to begin next summer. The existing science building, Smith Hall, lacks the adequate lab and classroom space required for incoming students. At the time Smith Hall was built in 1964, the university had a total enrollment of just 3,537 students, according to Bisnow. Today, approximately 3,800 students are majoring in just STEM fields.