Residence Halls

New residence halls are among several major construction projects recently completed at Appalachian State University.

The project supports App State’s strategic priorities, as well as the university’s goals and metrics associated with the University of North Carolina System’s strategic plan. It benefits students, academics and the community.

About

This major housing project has replaced six residence halls, which were recommended for removal due to extensive deferred maintenance needs: Bowie, Coltrane, Eggers, Gardner, Justice and East. All but East Hall are located on the west side of campus.

The project has replaced nearly 1,800 beds — and added 500 more — while also adding better, more efficient parking.

Nearly 2,300 beds of student housing were provided in three phases, with work completed in fall 2020, fall 2021 and fall 2022.

This aerial image, taken May 10, 2023, shows the new parking lot at the former site of Eggers and Bowie halls on App State's Boone campus. Photo by Wes Craig and Chase Reynolds

As shown in this photo taken March 20, 2023, workers prepare the former site of App State’s Eggers and Bowie halls for surface parking. Paving for the new lot is anticipated to begin in late March, weather permitting. Photo by Wes Craig and Chase Reynolds

As shown in this photo taken Nov. 30, 2022, the majority of Eggers Hall has been demolished. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The demolition of Eggers Hall is underway, as shown in photo taken Nov. 9, 2022. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Bowie Hall has been completely demolished, as shown in this photo taken Oct. 12, 2022. The demolition of the adjacent Eggers Hall is slated to begin in late October 2022. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The demolition of App State's Bowie Hall is underway, as shown in this photo taken Aug. 15, 2022. Photo by Kyla Willoughby

An aerial view of App State's four newest residence halls, including New River Hall, pictured at far left, center, which has opened for the fall 2022 semester. Shown at right, center, are Laurel Creek Hall (opened August 2021); Thunder Hill Hall (opened August 2020); and Raven Rocks Hall (opened August 2020). Photo by Wes Craig and Chase Reynolds

New River Hall received its certificate of occupancy during the last week of July 2022 and the first Resident Assistants began moving in. The new building — pictured on Aug. 5, 2022 — will welcome students for fall 2022, with a building dedication to be held in September 2022. Photo by Chase Reynolds

An aerial view of the nearly finished New River Residence Hall at App State, taken July 14, 2022. Photo by Wes Craig and Chase Reynolds

This aerial photo, taken July 14, 2022, shows the roof of App State’s New River Hall and the building’s adjacent parking lot, which recently received a fresh coat of pavement. Photo by Wes Craig and Chase Reynolds

A close-up of New River Hall’s main entrance, which faces Stadium Drive. Recently installed landscaping is also visible in this photo, taken July 14, 2022. Photo by Wes Craig and Chase Reynolds

An aerial view of App State’s New River Hall, taken June 13, 2022. The building’s exterior is now complete and interior work is taking place during summer 2022. Workers are shown installing steps near the building’s main entrance, accessible from Stadium Drive. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction progress on App State’s New River Hall as of April 25, 2022. This photo shows the side of the residence hall that faces Stadium Drive. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Taken from Stadium Drive, this March 22, 2022, photo shows construction progress on App State’s New River Hall. The building is slated to open in time for students to move in for the fall 2022 semester. Photo by Chase Reynolds

This photo, taken near Garwood Hall, shows construction progress on App State’s New River Hall as of March 22, 2022. Photo by Chase Reynolds

This photo, taken Feb. 18, 2022, shows a view of App State's New River Hall from Stadium Drive. Construction of the building is on schedule, with a slated completion date of July 30, 2022. Duck Pond is visible in the foreground. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction progresses on App State's New River Hall, as shown in this photo taken Feb. 18, 2022. More than 75% of masonry work for the building is complete. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction progress on App State's New River Hall, as of January 2022. Nearly all of the building's windows have been installed and more than half of the masonry work is complete. Photo by Kyla Willoughby

The sun shines bright over App State's New River Hall in this photo taken Jan. 27, 2022. Construction of the building is on schedule and slated for completion in time for students to move in for the fall 2022 semester. Photo by Kyla Willoughby

Tyvek wrapping has been applied to the exterior back side of New River Hall, as shown in this Jan. 18, 2022, photo. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction on App State's New River Hall continues, as shown in this photo taken Jan. 13, 2022, from Stadium Drive. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Masonry work continues on New River Hall's exterior front side, which faces Rivers Street, as shown in this photo taken Dec. 8, 2021. Photo by Chase Reynolds

This photo, taken from Stadium Drive on Dec. 8, 2021, shows exterior work taking place on App State's New River Hall. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction of App State’s New River Hall continues, with masonry work to the building’s exterior shown in this Oct. 13 photo. Photo by Chase Reynolds

This photo, taken in September 2021, shows the continued construction progress on App State’s New River Hall. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction progress on New River Hall as of August 2021. Photo by Chase Reynolds

This photo, taken Aug. 25, shows Tyvek wrapping applied to New River Hall's frame. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Demolition progress on Gardner Hall as of Aug. 25. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Appalachian State University's newly opened Laurel Creek Hall — the latest residence hall to be completed in App State’s multiphase housing project — is pictured during fall 2021 move-in week. Photo by Chase Reynolds

This Aug. 11 photo shows demolition progress on Coltrane Hall. Demolition of Coltrane and the adjacent Gardner Hall will be completed in December 2021. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction progress on New River Hall, as of Aug. 11. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction progress on New River Hall, as of Aug. 4. This photo, taken from Stadium Drive, shows the back of the building. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Coltrane Hall's continued demolition is shown in this Aug. 4 photo. Demolition of Coltrane and the adjacent Gardner Hall will be completed in December 2021. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Pictured July 28, construction on Laurel Creek Hall nears completion, in time for student move-in in August 2021. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction progress on New River Hall as of July 28. This photo, taken at the intersection of Stadium Drive and Rivers Street, shows the front of the building. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The back of New River Hall, under construction, is shown in this July 28 photo. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Pictured July 28, demolition of Coltrane Hall continues. Demolition of Coltrane and the adjacent Gardner Hall will be completed in December 2021 and the area will become surface parking. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Finishing touches are made to Laurel Creek Hall, as pictured July 21. The building will open for students in August 2021 with approximately 640 beds. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Pictured July 21, construction progress continues on New River Hall. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Progress on Laurel Creek Hall as of July 21. The 640-bed residence hall will open for students in August 2021. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The demolition of Coltrane Hall is underway, as shown in this July 21 photo. Demolition of Coltrane and the adjacent Gardner Hall will be completed in December 2021 and the area will become surface parking. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The brick exterior gets a final cleaning and landscaping is installed June 24 at Laurel Creek Hall. The residence hall opens for students in August 2021. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Progress on New River Hall as of June 24. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Progress on New River Hall as of June 16. Gardner and Coltrane halls, visible in the background, will be demolished this year. Photo by Marie Freeman

Progress on Laurel Creek Hall as of June 16. The building will open for students in August 2021 with approximately 640 beds. Photo by Marie Freeman

Progress on New River Hall as of June 3. Visible in the background at left is the academic building Garwood Hall. Photo by Marie Freeman

Progress on New River Hall as of June 3, as seen from the far side of the campus duck pond. Photo by Marie Freeman

Progress on Laurel Creek Hall as of June 3. The residence hall opens to students in August. Photo by Marie Freeman

Three of the new residence halls as of May 2021. In the center of the image are, clockwise from top: Laurel Creek Hall, which opened August 2021; Thunder Hill Hall, which opened August 2020; and Raven Rocks Hall, which opened August 2020. Photo by Marie Freeman

Framing under way May 27 on New River Hall, which is located by the intersection of Stadium Drive and Rivers Street. Photo by Marie Freeman

Laurel Creek Hall exterior as of May 19. The residence hall is scheduled to open for students in August 2021. Photo by Marie Freeman

Cranes are in place at New River Hall May 19 as first-level framing begins. The residence hall is scheduled to open for students in fall 2022. Photo by Marie Freeman

Laurel Creek Hall exterior as of May 19. The residence hall is scheduled to open for students in August 2021. Photo by Marie Freeman

New River Hall foundation and stair towers under construction May 13. The residence hall is scheduled to open for students in fall 2022. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Laurel Creek Hall exterior as of May 13. The residence hall is scheduled to open for students in August. Photo by Chase Reynolds.

Exterior work on Laurel Creek Hall May 6. The residence hall is scheduled to open for students in August. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Exterior work on Laurel Creek Hall April 29. The residence hall is scheduled to open for students in August. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Foundation work and stair towers underway April 29 at the site of New River Hall, which is scheduled to open for students in fall 2022. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Stair towers under construction April 29 on the site of New River Hall, which is scheduled to open for students in fall 2022. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Exterior work continues on Laurel Creek Hall April 29, as seen from Raven Rocks Hall. Once construction vehicles and equipment are removed, a grassy courtyard will be created between the two residence halls. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction of New River Hall as of April 15. Gardner and Coltrane halls, visible in the background, are among the aging residence halls to be replaced by the multi-phase housing project. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Masonry work on Laurel Creek Hall is in the final stretch in this image taken April 15. Indoors, drywall is being completed and carpeting is beginning to be installed one floor at a time. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction of New River Hall as of April 7. In the foreground, a yellow vapor barrier marks where concrete will soon be poured for the foundation and footers. Progress on a stair tower continues at left. Click on image for full view. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Exterior masonry work underway at Laurel Creek Hall as of April 7, as seen from Raven Rocks Hall. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Exterior masonry work underway at Laurel Creek Hall as of April 7. Photo by Chase Reynolds

A stair tower takes shape March 31 at the construction site of New River Hall, a 750-bed residence hall scheduled to open fall 2022. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Exterior masonry work underway at Laurel Creek Hall as of March 31. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Laurel Creek Hall construction as of March 23. Exterior masonry work continues, while interior crews install drywall. The residence hall is scheduled to open for fall 2021. Photo by Marie Freeman

An architectural rendering of the finished courtyard between Laurel Creek Hall and Raven Rocks Hall. In the background is Thunder Hill Hall. Image courtesy of Niles Bolton Associates.

An architectural rendering of New River Hall in winter. This residence hall is in the early stage of construction and is scheduled to open fall 2022. Image courtesy of Niles Bolton Associates.

An architectural rendering of Laurel Creek Hall and courtyard, as seen from Raven Rocks Hall. Image courtesy of Niles Bolton Associates.

Site work for New River Hall, a 750-bed residence hall scheduled to open fall 2022, as of March 23. Seen at right is Stadium Drive. Photo by Marie Freeman

The $191 million housing project underway as part of a public-private partnership to replace six aging residence halls so far consists of three buildings. Pictured clockwise from left, Thunder Hill Hall and Raven Rocks Hall, both of which opened fall 2020, and Laurel Creek Hall, scheduled to open fall 2021. Site work is underway for New River Hall, not pictured, which is scheduled to open fall 2022. Click on the image for a full view. Photo by Marie Freeman

A bird’s-eye view March 17 of the construction site for New River Hall, a 750-bed residence hall scheduled to open fall 2022. Photo by Marie Freeman

Laurel Creek Hall construction as of March 17. Exterior masonry work continues, while interior crews install drywall. The residence hall is scheduled to open for fall 2021. Photo by Marie Freeman

Laurel Creek Hall construction as of March 11. Exterior masonry work continues, while interior crews install drywall. The residence hall is scheduled to open for fall 2021. Photo by Marie Freeman

A bird’s-eye view March 11 of New River Hall’s footer and foundation work in progress. At right is Stadium Drive. The residence hall will have 750 beds and is scheduled to open fall 2022. Photo by Marie Freeman

Scaffolding is in place on Laurel Creek Hall March 4 for the remaining exterior work to the building. Laurel Creek Hall is scheduled to open fall 2021. Photo by Marie Freeman

Masonry work on Laurel Creek Hall takes place under protective covering March 4. The residence hall will have approximately 640 beds and is scheduled to open fall 2021. Photo by Marie Freeman

Laurel Creek Hall construction as of Feb. 26. Exterior masonry work continues, while crews inside install drywall beginning with the top floor and working their way down to the first floor. Installation of rooftop mechanical equipment and elevators is underway. Photo by Marie Freeman

Site preparation of New River Hall Feb. 26, including the rough grading for each of the building’s three levels: the terrace level closest to Rivers Street, the first-floor ground entrance facing the campus duck pond and the second-floor ground level facing Gardner and Coltrane halls. The pouring of foundations and footings is underway. Photo by Marie Freeman

Site preparation of New River Hall Feb. 17, including the rough grading for each of the building’s three levels: the terrace level closest to Rivers Street, the first-floor ground entrance facing the campus duck pond and the second-floor ground level facing Gardner and Coltrane halls. The pouring of foundations and footings is underway. Photo by Marie Freeman

Laurel Creek Hall construction as of Feb. 17. Exterior masonry work continues, while crews inside install drywall beginning with the top floor and working their way down to the first floor. Installation of rooftop mechanical equipment and elevators is underway. Photo by Marie Freeman

Laurel Creek Hall construction as of Feb. 10. Exterior masonry work continues, while crews inside install drywall beginning with the top floor and working their way down to the first floor. Installation of rooftop mechanical equipment and elevators is underway. Photo by Marie Freeman

Site preparation of New River Hall Feb. 10, including the rough grading for each of the building’s three levels: the terrace level closest to Rivers Street, the first-floor ground entrance facing the campus duck pond and the second-floor ground level facing Gardner and Coltrane halls. The pouring of foundations and footings is underway as weather permits. Photo by Marie Freeman

The V-shaped Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Jan. 27, as seen from Raven Rocks Hall. Photo by Marie Freeman

Site preparation Jan. 27 where the future New River Hall will stand. Gardner and Coltrane halls are visible at left. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Protected scaffolding is in place on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Jan. 27. Photo by Marie Freeman

Window installation continues on a section of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Jan. 21. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The V-shaped Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Jan. 21, as seen from Raven Rocks Hall. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Site preparation underway for New River Hall (Building 400), with campus visible beyond. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Masonry work is underway on this wing of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Jan. 21. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Masonry work is underway on this wing of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Jan. 14, as framing and roofing are almost complete. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Site work underway where New River Hall (Building 400) will be constructed. Pictured are materials for installation of a new underground storm water retention system. Photo by Chase Reynolds

A wing of Laurel Creek Hall, shown Jan. 7 with installed windows and completed Tvyek wrapping. Photo by Marie Freeman

Phases one and two of the $191 million housing project — with Thunder Hill Hall at bottom left, Raven Rocks Hall, center, and Laurel Creek Hall under construction at right – as of Jan. 7, 2021. At Laurel Creek Hall, windows are being installed and exterior masonry work has begun. Photo by Marie Freeman

Excavation for the footers of New River Hall (Building 400), phase three of the total project, is seen underway Jan. 7 where Justice Hall once stood. Photo by Marie Freeman

The V-shaped wings of Laurel Creek Hall join at this central core, pictured Jan. 7. This area is designed for end-of-hallway lounges and study nooks, featuring large storefront windows. Photo by Marie Freeman

Construction of the five-story Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Dec. 17. The project is on schedule for its fall 2021 opening. Photo by Marie Freeman

Construction continues on the Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Dec. 17. The residential hall is on schedule for its fall 2021 opening. Photo by Marie Freeman

Construction of the five-story Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Dec. 9. The project is on schedule for its fall 2021 opening. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The site of the future New River Hall (Building 400) Dec. 9, where Justice Hall once stood. Final design is underway for this new residence hall scheduled to open in fall 2022. Photo by Chase Reynolds

On Dec. 1, the day of App State’s first accumulating snowfall of 2020, construction of the five-story Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) is seen just beyond the rooftops of Raven Rocks Hall, left, and Thunder Hill Hall, right, both of which opened for residents in August. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Progress on one of the three wings of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Dec. 2. Photo by Chase Reynolds

In this spot where Justice Hall once stood, New River Hall (Building 400) will be constructed. This image was taken Dec. 1. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Progress on two of the three wings of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Dec. 2. Click on the image for a full view. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Workers install weatherization wrap on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Nov. 25. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Framing continues on two wings of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Nov. 25, as weatherization wrapping is underway on the third wing, in background. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Nov. 17. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Workers install weatherization wrap on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Nov. 17. Photo by Chase Reynolds

An aerial view of the residence halls projects as of Nov. 5, with the completed Raven Rocks Hall (left) and Thunder Hill Hall (right) visible in the foreground. Under construction is Laurel Creek Hall. Photo by Marie Freeman

Construction on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Nov. 11. Photo by Chase Reynolds

A crane lifts prefabricated units into place to form one of the three wings of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Nov. 11. Visible in the background is Belk Residence Hall. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Nov. 5. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Oct. 28. Photo by Marie Freeman

Construction on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Oct. 28, with fall colors. Photo by Marie Freeman

Progress on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Oct. 21, as two cranes install prefabricated framing panels. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Progress Oct. 21 on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300), with elevator shafts visible at right. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Progress on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Oct. 14, as two cranes install prefabricated framing panels. Photo by Chase Reynolds

A crane installs prefabricated framing panels Oct. 14 as part of the construction on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300). Photo by Chase Reynolds

A close-up image Oct. 14 of the installation of prefabricated framing panels as part of the construction on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300). Photo by Chase Reynolds

Progress on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) Sept. 23, as a crane installs pre-fabricated framing panels. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Demolition of Justice Hall as of Sept. 23. Photo by Chase Reynolds

A close-up image taken Sept. 23 of the Justice Hall demolition, as a construction worker hoses down the site to limit dust. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction underway on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Sept. 16, including steel and wood framing. Two cranes are being used to install constructed framing panels that were built off site. Laurel Creek Hall will have 640 beds. Photo by Marie Freeman

A crane is used Sept. 16 to install pre-built framing panels in the construction of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300). Meanwhile, stairs and treads are being added to the completed stair towers, in background. Photo by Marie Freeman

Construction underway on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Sept. 9, including steel and wood framing. The building will have 640 beds. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction underway on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Sept. 3, including steel and wood framing. It will have 640 beds. Visible behind the construction site are Thunder Hill Hall, at left, and Raven Rocks Hall, at center — both occupied by residents as of August. Photo by Marie Freeman

The back of Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) on Sept. 3, the day of the building’s official ribbon cutting. It has 590 beds and was constructed to meet certifications of the Green Built program. Residents moved into Thunder Hill in August for fall semester. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The back of Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200) on Sept. 3, the day of the official ribbon cutting. It has 322 beds and was constructed to meet certifications of the Green Built program. Residents moved into the building in August for fall semester. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Demotion of Justice Hall as of Sept. 3. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Progress on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of Aug. 20. In the background are Thunder Hill Hall, right, and Raven Rocks Hall, left. Both are now housing residents for fall semester. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The exterior of Raven Rocks Hall, one of Appalachian’s newest residence halls, as of Aug. 14. Raven Rocks’ first residents recently moved in. Photo by Marie Freeman

An apartment-style suite within Thunder Hill Hall, as of Aug. 10. This residence hall welcomed its first residents during the week of Aug. 10. Photo by Marie Freeman

Residents of Thunder Hill Hall can use this common area on the bottom floor, pictured Aug. 10. Photo by Marie Freeman

The facade of Raven Rocks Hall, one of Appalachian’s newest residence halls, as of Aug. 10. Photo by Marie Freeman

The exterior of Thunder Hill Hall, one of Appalachian’s newest residence halls, as of Aug. 14. Thunder Hill’s first residents recently moved in. Photo by Marie Freeman

Construction of Laurel Creek Hall, as of Aug. 13. Framing work for the building is ready to begin. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Site of the residence hall and north end zone projects Aug. 5, including the new Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), center, which open this month for students. Also pictured, center, is construction on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300), slated to open fall 2021. Click on the image for a full view. Photo by Marie Freeman

Progress on elevators shafts and foundation work for Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300), as of Aug. 5. Photo by Chase Reynolds

An aerial view of Justice Hall’s demolition, as of Aug. 5. Photo by Marie Freeman

Raven Rocks Hall, as of July 29. The building nears completion for fall move-in, with final testing of its HVAC system, elevators, the fire alarms and Wi-Fi underway. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Demolition of Justice Hall, as of July 29. Built in 1952, Justice Hall is among six halls being replaced in the new housing project underway. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Demolition of Justice Hall, as of July 29. Built in 1952, Justice Hall is among six halls being replaced in the new housing project underway. By the end of fall semester, a clean site should be ready for New River Hall (Building 400). Photo by Chase Reynolds

Thunder Hill Hall, as of July 29. The building nears completion for fall move-in, with final testing of its HVAC system, elevators, the fire alarms and Wi-Fi underway. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The entrance of Raven Rocks Hall, which will open to students fall semester. Photo by Chase Reynolds

In this July 22 image, Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100), in foreground, and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), left, near completion for their scheduled opening for August move-in. Installation of furniture is underway. Photo by Marie Freeman

Demolition of Justice Hall, as of July 22. Justice is among six halls being replaced in the new housing project underway. Photo by Marie Freeman

Construction of Laurel Creek Hall’s (Building 300) stair tower and foundations as of July 22, with Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200) in the background. Photo by Marie Freeman

In this July 15 image, Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200) near completion for their scheduled opening for August move-in. In the foreground, foundation work continues for Laurel Creek Hall’s (Building 300). Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction of Laurel Creek Hall’s (Building 300) stair tower and foundations, as of July 15. Photo by Chase Reynolds

At left, structural steel goes up for the elevator lobby lounges next to the elevator shaft of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300). At right, the building’s stair tower No. 2, with scaffolding and masonry installation underway. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Demolition machinery at Justice Hall, as of July 15. Photo by Marie Freeman

Progress on Laurel Creek Hall’s (Building 300) foundation, as of July 6. Visible at left is the beginning of an elevator shaft. Photo by Marie Freeman

The entrance of Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) nears completion, as of July 6. Photo by Marie Freeman

The demolition site of Justice Hall, as of July 6. Photo by Marie Freeman

The Jack Branch Drive side of Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), as of June 25. Photo by Marie Freeman

The installed front-door signage of Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), as of June 25. Photo by Marie Freeman

Brick work underway on Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) as of June 25. Photo by Marie Freeman

Progress on the foundation of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of June 25. Photo by Marie Freeman

Progress on Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) as of June 25, with Gardner and Coltrane halls in the background. Gardner and Coltrane are among the six residence halls slated for replacement by the newer facilities. Photo by Marie Freeman

Foundation work continues for Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of June 11, with Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200) in the background. Photo by Marie Freeman

Two of the three new residence halls under construction, Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), as of June 11. Visible at left is the new end zone facility. The high-rise Bowie Hall and Eggers Hall, which will be replaced as part of the three-phase residence halls project, are seen in the background. Photo by Marie Freeman

Justice Hall, pictured June 11, is among six residence halls to be replaced by the three-phase residence halls project underway. Photo by Marie Freeman

The view of campus from a corner window of Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), as of June 1. The space will be used as a study space or gathering area for small groups. Photo by Marie Freeman

The new buildings feature a mix of suite- and apartment-style units. Here is an entrance of one of the new rooms with flooring installed. Photo by Marie Freeman

A shower in one of the suite-style bathrooms. Photo by Marie Freeman

A dual sink area in one of the suite-style bathrooms. Photo by Marie Freeman

Associate Vice Chancellor for Finance and Operations Matt Dull checks out progress on a kitchen area inside Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), during a June 1 walk-through. Photo by Marie Freeman

Counters have been installed and most of the dry wall finished in this kitchen area of one of the Raven Rocks Hall’s (Building 200) apartment-style units, as of June 1. Photo by Marie Freeman

Dry wall nears completion in this room in Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), as of June 1. Photo by Marie Freeman

This corner window overlooks foundation work underway on Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300, as of June 1. Photo by Marie Freeman

A hallway of Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), with drywall and ceiling work underway June 1. Photo by Marie Freeman

Work on the brick facing of Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) continues, as of May 28. Photo by Marie Freeman

As of May 13, foundation work for the two sections of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) are underway in foreground, as exterior work on Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), at right, near completion and brick facing work continues on Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100), at left. Photo by Chase Reynolds

A view of Appalachian’s Belk Library and Information Commons in the distance, as brick facing work on one of the new residence halls continues May 13. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Foundation work continues for Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300), as of May 13. Photo by Chase Reynolds

A May 13 view of the new residence halls under construction from the intersection of Stadium Drive and Jack Branch Drive. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Brick facing work continues on Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100), right, and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), left, as of May 6. The buildings are on schedule to open for fall semester. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Brick facing work continues on Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) May 6, with Gardner and Coltrane halls visible in the background. Gardner and Coltrane will be among six buildings torn down as part of the three-phase residence halls project underway. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Brick facing work continues May 6 on the new residence halls under construction. Two buildings are on schedule to open for fall semester. Photo by Chase Reynolds

In this May 6 image, concrete foundations are being installed for a portion of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300), left, while utility installation for the three-phase residence halls project continues at center. Photo by Chase Reynolds

A construction employee at work on the residence halls project May 6. Capital projects have continued this spring, since Gov. Roy Cooper’s March 27, 2020, stay-at-home order considered the work an essential business activity. For employee safety, contractors have taken protective measures against COVID-19 including personal protective equipment, extra job-site sinks for washing hands, washing and limited sharing of tools, and the hiring of a dedicated medic to check temperatures when workers report to the job site and throughout the day. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Foundation work and utility installation continues for Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of April 28, with Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) in the background at left and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200) in the background at right. Photo by Marie Freeman

As of April 28, exterior finishing work continues on Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200) at left and Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100), foreground. Photo by Marie Freeman

A close-up image of Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), as of April 28. Photo by Marie Freeman

Site preparations continue for Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of April 22, with Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) in the background at left and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200) in the background at right. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Foundations being installed for Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) as of April 15, with Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) in the background. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Exterior finishing continues on Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200) as of April 15, with site preparation for Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) in the foreground. Inside, construction crews are installing restrooms, elevators, drywall and other finishing work. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Brickwork continues on Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) as of April 15. Inside, construction crews are installing restrooms, elevators, drywall and other finishing work. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Progress as of March 26 on Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), at left, and Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100). Photo by Chase Reynolds

Workers add brick facing to Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) in this March 26 photo. Photo by Chase Reynolds

A worker adds brick facing to Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) in this March 26 photo. Photo by Chase Reynolds

The construction site for three residence halls, as of March 17: Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), which are both nearly dried in, and Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300), foreground, for which site work is underway. Click on the image for a full view. Photo by Marie Freeman

Progress on Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100), foreground, and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), far left, as of March 17. Photo by Marie Freeman

A close-up of Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) from Stadium Drive, as of March 17. Photo by Marie Freeman

The view of Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) from Stadium Drive, as of Feb. 26. Photo by Marie Freeman

Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100), left, and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), right, as seen from the new parking deck Feb. 26. Photo by Marie Freeman

A close-up image of Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100), as of Feb. 26. Photo by Marie Freeman

A close-up image of Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200), as of Feb. 26. Photo by Marie Freeman

Construction on Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100), as of Feb. 20. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Construction on Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200) and Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) as of Feb. 10, with the north end zone facility at right. Photo by Marie Freeman

The duck pond side of campus Jan. 29, with new residence hall construction at center. Photo by Marie Freeman

The completed New River Residence Hall, pictured in early August 2022, welcomed App State students for the fall 2022 semester. Photo by Chase Reynolds

App State students are pictured on the courtyard between Laurel Creek Hall and Raven Rocks Hall in this photo taken Aug. 12, 2021. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Status

In mid-February 2019, App State and RISE: A Real Estate Company (RISE) signed final paperwork required to develop the multiphase, $191 million housing project in a public-private partnership (P3).

The university selected RISE through a competitive procurement process in 2018. The development of the entire project was planned in three phases, with completion dates of fall 2020, fall 2021 and fall 2022.

In phase one, RISE constructed two residence halls —Thunder Hill Hall (Building 100) and Raven Rocks Hall (Building 200) — on what had been Stadium Parking Lot, totaling 905 beds. Both opened for residents in August 2020. Also part of the project, a parking deck with 477 spaces opened August 2019 at the site of the former Winkler Hall, which was demolished in 2014, adding 250 more spaces to that area of campus. This phase also included replacement of a steam line in the area. An official ribbon-cutting ceremony for Thunder Hill and Raven Rocks halls was held Sept. 3, 2020, as part of App State’s Founders Day events.

As part of phase two, the construction of Laurel Creek Hall (Building 300) began Feb. 14, 2020. The building was dried in a year later. By June 2021, all apartments and corridors were completed and inspected, and the HVAC, sprinkler and elevator systems were all working. The building opened for students in August 2021 with 635 beds.

As part of phase three, site work and the pouring of foundations and footers began in February 2021 for New River Hall (Building 400), which has approximately 737 beds. New River Hall replaces Justice Hall, which was demolished during summer/fall 2020. The building received its certificate of occupancy during the last week of July 2022 and the first resident assistants began moving in. Approximately 6,100 students moved into New River Hall and 17 other residence halls at App State for the fall 2022 semester.

Demolition of Gardner and Coltrane residence halls was completed in September 2021, and this area has been developed as surface parking with approximately 140 spaces. Work for the final component of the P3 project — the demolition of Eggers and Bowie residence halls — began in May 2022 and was completed in fall 2022. This area has been developed into surface parking that offers approximately 150 spaces; work for the lot was completed in mid-April 2023.

View 3D renderings of rooms

Each of the new residence halls include a mix of suite- and apartment-style units. On this webpage, click in the upper left corner to toggle between renderings of the two styles. Renderings courtesy of RISE: A Real Estate Company

How is it funded?

The project is funded through a public-private partnership, known as a P3.

Approximately 330 beds were constructed by RISE: A Real Estate Company (RISE) and purchased and owned by App State using proceeds from its General Revenue Bonds, Series 2016C. The parking deck and approximately 1,230 beds are financed and owned by Beyond Owners Group (Beyond) through tax-exempt debt. Approximately 750 beds are financed and owned by the Appalachian Student Housing Corporation, an affiliated foundation of App State.

App State sought and received authorization from the Board of Governors in October 2018 to enter into a ground lease agreement with Beyond, which has served as the foundation for related agreements on the development and asset management of the 1,230-bed and parking deck portion of the project.

A ground lease is an agreement in which a tenant is permitted to develop a piece of property during the lease period, after which the land and all improvements are turned over to the property owner. The agreement between the university and Beyond allowed Beyond to obtain project financing. Beyond will have a leasehold interest in the project site and will be obligated to develop the project and own the privately financed improvements for the duration of the ground lease. App State approved plans and specifications for the project.

Through the P3, App State saved more than $73 million over the cost of developing the property on its own. The P3 is made possible by millennial campus designation.

Who will benefit?

First-year and upper-division students who wish to stay on campus in an environment that promotes their academic and personal success benefit from this project. Community members attending campus events benefit from the additional parking available in the new parking deck, as well as those participating in summer youth camps and professional conferences hosted by App State, which rely on university housing for accommodations.

How does it support UNC System Goals and Metrics?

The first-year experience for both first-year and transfer residential students plays a significant role in student success at App State. Research conducted nationally, as well as on campus by Institutional Research, Assessment and Planning, has shown that students who participate in on-campus housing activities tend to become more involved in campus events, make more friends, create more robust connections with peers and faculty/staff, earn higher grades and are retained at a higher level.

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About

Status

View 3D renderings of rooms

How is it funded?

Who will benefit?

How does it support UNC System Goals and Metrics?

Related Links:

Major current projects:

Major completed projects: