UJ expands campus footprint in Jamestown
UJ us purchasing part of The Legacy Center to offer more housing to students
University of Jamestown announces that it is purchasing a portion of The Legacy Center in Jamestown. The University plans to use this building to provide a much-needed housing option for UJ students, as well as rental opportunities for individuals and businesses in the community.
When the building was listed for sale, The Legacy Center was divided into two condos. One condo will continue to focus on affordable senior housing. The other, which UJ is purchasing, includes 31 apartments, all current commercial space, and the building’s grounds.
Dustin Jensen, VP for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, says the building’s proximity to campus, located at 419 5th St NE, as well as its positive history with the University makes it the ideal location for student housing.
“The Legacy Center will provide a significant number of UJ students with apartment-style living that fits the wants and needs of our current student population,” said Jensen. “Over the past three years, UJ has housed students in the Legacy Center alongside the public; it has been a win-win for both groups, and we see it continuing to be a great fit.”
As more students transition into living in the facility, the University said it plans to work with and uphold the leases of residents and businesses in The Legacy Center.
“We are excited to partner with current commercial tenants to keep them in the facility,” explained Jensen. “They provide a myriad of important services to the Jamestown community, and we look forward to fostering those relationships into the future.”
University of Jamestown President, Dr. Polly Peterson, shared her excitement about future academic opportunities available in the 12,000 square feet of unused space currently in the building.
“This acquisition marks the first time in decades that the University has expanded its footprint beyond its traditional campus,” said Dr. Peterson. “Four years ago, the University’s trustees embraced an ambitious strategic plan that aspired for growth in both traditional and non-traditional areas. The purchase of The Legacy facility amplifies our ability to meet these goals while we continue to build strong connections with the community of Jamestown.”
The University said it plans to create a civil engineering lab in this facility and potentially relocate equipment from crowded labs. It is also discussing the potential to place its community-used facilities in The Legacy Center, as the building is more accessible to the public.
