The University of Utah has selected American Campus Communities (ACC) for the development and management of 5,000 beds on the university’s campus in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.

ACC, in collaboration with Utah firms MHTN Architects and Okland Construction, and national design firm Ayers Saint Gross, will spearhead a long-term development initiative chosen through a competitive RFP process initiated in December 2022. Under the agreement, the university will maintain land ownership, while the selected companies will fund, plan, and construct the student housing. ACC will oversee operations. This distinctive funding model allows the university to allocate public funds for research, student experiences, education, and healthcare enhancements.

The project aims to complement existing Housing and Residential Education (HRE) facilities. These on-campus housing units will offer various amenities such as kitchens, laundry facilities, and fitness centers, conveniently located near classrooms and libraries. Providing students with a comfortable living space, the housing units contribute to student retention. The initial phase, comprising 1,500 beds, is set for completion in 2026, with an additional 3,500 beds planned in subsequent phases over the following five years.