The University of Idaho announced on Apr. 16 that it has completed significant upgrades to its student housing, including the replacement of former military housing with new graduate student units and ongoing renovations to undergraduate residence halls. The university said these changes are designed to meet the needs and expectations of today’s students.
Military housing converted for graduate students in 1970 served for over five decades before being demolished last year. In its place, the South Hill project is underway, which will bring 120 units and 188 rooms for graduate students when finished. “The South Hill housing lasted far beyond its expected life,” said Erik Elordi, assistant vice president for campus services. “But now we are jumping feet first into an incredible new era of housing at U of I — one that we anticipate will not only attract students but also provide them with 21st-century amenities they deserve.”
This development comes after the University of Idaho achieved Carnegie R1 research status in early 2025, placing it among the top four percent of research universities nationally. The new space is expected to accommodate more graduate students as they participate in research activities, with occupancy planned for Fall 2026.
Upgrades are also underway across campus in undergraduate residence halls from the 1960s era. These improvements include air conditioning and modernized rooms in both Theophilus Tower and Wallace Complex. The top three floors of Theophilus Tower opened to first-year students in Fall 2025, while Wallace Complex updates have already begun benefiting residents this spring. Both projects are set for completion by Summer 2027 and will increase overall residence hall capacity by thirty-six beds.
Elordi said that research shows living on campus during a student’s first year can lead to higher GPAs as well as better retention and graduation rates: “Everything we do at U of I is with student success in mind. This project is no different.” Senior Connor Blum shared his experience living on campus as a double major: “Having the convenience of the proximity to classes, The Eatery and the rec center has been a great point in my college experience.” He later became a residence hall assistant, which helped cover his expenses while he focused on academics.
Reflecting on his own time at U of I as a resident advisor years ago, Elordi said: “I have led projects like this before but to do this at my alma mater and know that it is a legacy project that will serve our students long after I am gone is incredibly powerful.”