​The University of North Florida (UNF) is embarking on significant housing expansion projects to accommodate its growing student population while upholding its longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship.​

New Student Housing Initiatives

In collaboration with local developer Chance Partners, UNF plans to construct 250 student apartments on a 17-acre parcel along First Coast Technology Parkway, situated south of the Flats UNF housing units between Glen Kernan Parkway North and J. Turner Butler Boulevard. This development, pending rezoning approval from Industrial Business Park to Planned Unit Development, is slated to commence in fall 2025 and aims for completion by the fall 2027 academic term. The project encompasses four residential buildings, a clubhouse, and a leasing office, with provisions for two parking spaces per unit. To ensure seamless connectivity, the apartments will be integrated into UNF’s shuttle service, linking residents directly to the campus core. ​

Additionally, UNF broke ground in February 2024 on the Honors Residence Hall, a four-story, 164,579-square-foot facility located on Osprey Ridge Road adjacent to Osprey Fountains. This $76.9 million project will house over 500 students and is expected to open in fall 2025. It represents UNF's first housing expansion since 2009, increasing on-campus accommodation capacity to approximately 4,300 beds.

Balancing Growth with Environmental Conservation

Founded on a 1,000-acre tract of former hardwood forest, UNF has prioritized environmental preservation since its inception. The campus includes the 382-acre Sawmill Slough Preserve, designated as a wildlife sanctuary and bird refuge, underscoring the university's dedication to conserving natural habitats. In line with this ethos, UNF integrates sustainability into its infrastructure projects, adhering to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification standards for new buildings. The Social Sciences building, opened in 2006, was the first in Northeast Florida to achieve LEED certification, reflecting UNF's leadership in green building practices. ​

The university's Campus Master Plan (2020-2030) outlines strategies to accommodate growth while preserving natural assets. It emphasizes compact, walkable development within the campus core, thereby minimizing environmental impact. The plan also envisions the creation of a college town center to provide additional student amenities and housing, enhancing the campus experience without encroaching on preserved areas. ​

Sustainable Living-Learning Communities

UNF fosters environmental awareness through initiatives like the Environmental Sustainability Living-Learning Community (LLC). This program offers students opportunities to engage in sustainability projects, both on campus and within the broader Northeast Florida ecosystem. Participants benefit from exclusive activities, workshops, and connections with peers and faculty who share a commitment to environmental stewardship. ​

By thoughtfully expanding its housing infrastructure and integrating sustainability into its development plans, UNF demonstrates a harmonious balance between accommodating student growth and preserving the natural environment that defines its campus.​