Surrey approved KPU’s first-ever student housing

Surrey has approved the development of an eight-storey student housing building for Kwantlen Polytechnic University – the university’s first-ever on-campus student housing project.

The building will total 359 beds and includes a dining hall, student services office, multi-faith space, plus study and social lounges. 

“There’s a lot of background research and planning that goes into these projects, and we’re just thrilled to see all the support from the city for this project that will not only contribute to the success of our students but also contributes to the community all around,” said Chani Joseph, KPU’s director of planning, development and sustainability. 

Joseph said they will be working hard to keep the $144 million project on time, with construction expected to start next year and be completed for the 2030 fall semester. The provincial government is also supporting the project, contributing $119 million.

KPU will cover the remaining $25 million with funds from the land sale for the new Surrey hospital and B.C. Cancer Centre. Rent will be at least 10 per cent below market rates and the building will need an additional 61 parking spaces.

Joseph said KPU has been discussing building student housing for at least three years and the university conducted student surveys, market demand analysis and worked with external consultants to put together a comprehensive business case. KPU’s student population is approximately 20,000 each year.

“There’s a strong contingent of students that are looking for better access to appropriate housing, so secure, safe, affordable housing. It’s an issue with all our campuses, but [Surrey] is our main campus. It’s our largest campus, and it’s the campus where we’ve found the most demand,” she said.

KPU also has campuses in Richmond and Langley. 

Mayor Brenda Locke and Coun. Pardeep Kooner both voiced support for the project.

“There’re a lot of students out there within our city. There’s a lot of young people in our city, so anything that we can do to help make their lives easier, including student housing, is very important,” said Kooner. 

Joseph said on-campus housing will help students “build those bonds, build that sense of belonging community that ultimately helps contribute to their success as students.” 

She added that the location will also give students close access to the R6 bus stop, parks and cycling and walking infrastructure.

“This truly is a transformational investment for our students at KPU … It’s an exciting day for us, and we’re looking forward to [the] next steps.”