UNF plans housing expansion

[Lunican]

UNF plans housing expansion

Once considered a commuter school, the University of North Florida is expanding its residential offerings in anticipation of students who will reside on campus. UNF is planning to construct Osprey Fountains, a 375,000-square-foot housing facility on 30 acres located near St. Johns Bluff Road South. The estimated cost of construction is $80 million, according to an application filed with the city of Jacksonville.

Zak Ovadia, director of facilities planning for UNF, said the new housing facility will allow for 1,000 beds, and will include the infrastructure, like roads and utilities, necessary for the development. Osprey Fountains will also feature a convenience store, grill and common area, kitchen, recreational facility, laundry room, swimming pool, running track and 1,000 parking spaces. Ovadia said it plans to begin construction this week, with the expected date of completion in July 2009.

http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/101507/bus_207838519.shtml