The University of Wisconsin-Madison is seeking to build a new dorm, the Wisconsin State Journal reports. Three possible locations are being explored currently for a new residence hall with up to 2,000 new beds — it’s the first new dorm in over a decade.
Two areas on the southeastern side of campus are being eyed as the top two choices for the new facility, with a third option on the campus’ Lakeshore side as a backup. Option one would demolish Merit Hall at the corner of West Dayton and Park streets; option two would utilize a portion of the asphalt on Mills Street’s Lot 45; and option three would build a residence hall on the Lakeshore Tennis Courts.
Factors under consideration include convenience for residents, proximity to other dorms, dining locations, classes and student resources. Other locations could still be found and considered. The new residence hall falls below UW-Madison’s first priority, the demolition of the Mosse Humanities building by 2030.
The university last built a dorm, Leopold Hall, a decade ago, and since then enrollment has risen by 14.7%. A new state law requires UW-Madison to admit Wisconsin high school students who graduate in the top 5% of their class, which could result in even larger freshman classes.
