“On-campus housing is an important part of the student experience,” said U of S Vice-President Finance and Resources Richard Florizone. “More student residence space will not only appeal to students throughout Saskatchewan and across Canada, but will also help attract more international students to the U of S.”

The new residence will cost about $35.9 million and will house 400 students. Construction is expected to be completed in 2011.

"Our government recognizes and understands the challenges that many students face as they search for safe, affordable, quality housing while pursuing their educational goals," said the Honourable Donna Harpauer, Minister of Social Services and Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. "Housing affordability and availability is a top priority for our government, and our $15 million funding commitment to this project will help build better lives for students and young people across the province."

“The Government of Saskatchewan understands the importance of post-secondary education as a contributing factor to the development of a more diverse, dynamic and cosmopolitan Saskatchewan,” said the Honourable Rob Norris, Minister of Advanced Education, Employment and Labour. “This project will help students from Saskatchewan and around the world access the support they need to succeed in their studies and reach their full potential.”

The student residence is located in the College Quarter, south of College Drive and east of Cumberland Ave. The College Quarter Master Plan, approved by the U of S Board of Governors in December 2009, outlines an overall concept for the area. It encompasses about 145 acres and could eventually include retail space, educational buildings, green spaces and recreational facilities to tie together the campus and the community.

For information on the student residence project, visit www.usask.ca/studentresidenceproject.

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For more information, contact:

Teri Rosenfelt, Communications Co-ordinator
University Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-5659
Email: teri.rosenfelt@usask.ca