Chattanooga, July 22, 2025
News Summary
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) has commenced the construction of the Oak Street Residence Hall to alleviate the housing shortage on campus. With a projected completion in fall 2027, the facility will accommodate 794 students in double-occupancy rooms. This significant investment comes as UTC anticipates a rise in enrollment, with a target of 15,000 students by 2030. The residence hall will feature several amenities, aiming to enhance the living experience for students and support a vibrant campus community.
Chattanooga
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) has officially begun construction on a new residence hall, named the Oak Street Residence Hall, as part of its initiative to address a significant housing shortage on campus. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Monday, marking a milestone in the university’s efforts to provide adequate accommodations for its increasing student population. The new facility is scheduled to be completed by fall 2027.
The Oak Street Residence Hall will be designed to house 794 students in double-occupancy rooms, facilitating the university’s goal to accommodate a growing number of enrollees. Current projections target an enrollment figure of 14,800 students by 2030, with Chancellor Lori Mann Bruce aiming even higher for a target of 15,000 students.
Last fall marked a significant increase in student enrollment, as UTC welcomed its largest student body ever, with 11,834 enrolled students. Despite existing facilities that provide approximately 3,700 beds, UTC receives over 5,000 housing applications annually, with more than 1,200 students on the waiting list for campus housing during the last enrollment period. Chancellor Bruce acknowledged the pressing need to guarantee housing for all students making requests, highlighting the high demand for residence options.
The Oak Street Residence Hall is planned to feature multiple amenities to enhance student living experiences. These include common spaces for studying and meetings, a pedestrian corridor connecting different areas of the campus, in-building laundry facilities, shared kitchens, and multipurpose rooms for student organizations. Each floor will incorporate distinct neighborhoods to promote community interaction among residents, creating an environment that fosters both academic collaboration and social engagement.
The total expenditure for the construction of the new residence hall is estimated at $114 million. Chattanooga-based architecture firm Tinker Ma is leading the design and construction efforts. The Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, Artanya Wesley, indicated that thoughtful consideration has been given to all aspects of the student experience in the hall’s development.
UTC anticipates that the growth of its enrollment may include not just traditional students, but also those who typically opt out of living on campus, such as dual enrollment and online students. This expansion is viewed as essential in maintaining a vibrant, engaging campus life for all students.
FAQ
What is the estimated completion date for the Oak Street Residence Hall?
The Oak Street Residence Hall is expected to be completed by fall 2027.
How many students can the Oak Street Residence Hall accommodate?
The new residence hall will have a capacity for 794 students in double-occupancy rooms.
What amenities will the new residence hall provide?
The Oak Street Residence Hall will feature study spaces, laundry facilities, shared kitchens, multipurpose spaces for organizations, and will include neighborhoods on each floor to enhance community building.
How much will the construction of the Oak Street Residence Hall cost?
The total cost for the construction of the Oak Street Residence Hall is projected to be $114 million.
Key Features of Oak Street Residence Hall
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Completion Date | Fall 2027 |
| Student Capacity | 794 students |
| Construction Cost | $114 million |
| Amenities | Common spaces, laundry facilities, shared kitchens, multipurpose spaces |
| Neighborhood Design | Distinct neighborhoods on each floor |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Breaks Ground on New Dormitory
Chattanooga’s Busy Weekend: Markets, Arts, and Events Showcase Community Spirit
UTC Breaks Ground on New Oak Street Residence Hall
Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: UTC Breaks Ground on 794-Bed Residence Hall
- Local 3 News: UTC Breaks Ground on New Residence Hall
- WDEF: UTC Breaks Ground on New Dorm
- Local 3 News: UTC to Hold Groundbreaking on July 21
- UTC Echo: Dooley Rules Out Permanent Role as UTC Chancellor
- Wikipedia: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
- Google Search: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
- Google Scholar: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
- Google News: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
