San Diego State University (SDSU) is set to break ground on an ambitious Evolve Student Housing project this summer, aimed at addressing the pressing need for on-campus housing. The initiative will bring seven new dormitory towers to the university over the next seven years, significantly increasing the student housing capacity from 8,500 to 13,000.
The project features one tower to be constructed on Montezuma Road, alongside six additional towers that will replace outdated dorm buildings on 55th Street. Designed by SDSU architect Bob Schulz, the new towers will not exceed 13 stories and are intended to remedy the overcrowding that has left many students struggling to secure on-campus accommodations. Schulz highlighted the urgency of the project, stating, “We have literally got every nook and cranny filled with students.”
Local residents like Molly Hart Lebherz expressed optimism about the new development, which she believes could alleviate some of the housing pressure in the College Area. Living near the campus for decades, Hart Lebherz has observed increased traffic and parking issues caused by students residing off-campus and hopes the new towers will help mitigate these challenges. “That’ll help alleviate some of the stress and help some of the sophomores find better housing,” Foster added.
SDSU aims to ensure that all freshmen and sophomores have access to on-campus housing, with plans to create space for upper-division students who wish to live on campus. Schulz acknowledged that the construction will alter the view for those driving across Mission Valley but emphasized the long-term benefits. On-campus students tend to perform better academically, and increased housing options are expected to ease the competitive housing market.
