KINGSTON, RI – Gilbane announced its collaboration with the University of Rhode Island (URI) to develop and construct up to 1,100 additional on-campus beds through a new, innovative public-private partnership. This initiative will address growing student demand for on-campus housing and underscores both URI’s and Gilbane’s commitment to enhancing the student experience at the state’s flagship research university.
Selected through a competitive proposal process, Gilbane will lease University-owned land to plan, finance, design, construct, and manage the new residence halls on URI’s Kingston Campus. With a legacy spanning 150 years, Providence-based Gilbane has a proven track record of delivering innovative housing solutions in collaboration with higher education institutions nationwide. This latest project highlights the company’s commitment to creating resource-efficient, student-focused communities that meet the evolving needs of universities and their students.
Gilbane is pleased to partner with URI on this significant project, which reflects our shared commitment to enhancing the student experience,” said Zach Tronti, development director of Gilbane Development. “This collaboration underscores our dedication to developing high-quality, accessible housing that supports academic success and fosters a vibrant campus community. It’s rewarding to be working towards a project that will have a lasting impact at URI and in our home state of Rhode Island.”
These modern apartment-style residential buildings will provide a vibrant, inclusive, and academically supportive environment for undergraduate and graduate students to thrive. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2025 following a feasibility and pre-development activity period, with the first occupancy planned for fall 2027.
“Gilbane is thrilled to continue our longstanding partnership with URI on this innovative project,” said Mike Busam, Gilbane Building’s Rhode Island Business Leader. “This is incredibly rewarding given our long history with the University, where Gilbane has contributed to enriching the campus over the past decades, constructing multiple facilities, including the Ryan Center and Center for Bio-Life Sciences, among others. We’re looking forward to returning to campus!”
The new project aligns with URI’s strategic plan, Focus URI, and builds on a decade of campus advancements, further cementing URI’s reputation as a top-tier institution that prioritizes student success.
“This public-private partnership offers many benefits to the University and our students,” said Abby Benson, vice president for administration and finance, University of Rhode Island. “The partnership enables us to address the growing demand for on-campus housing expressed by URI students. It also enables us to develop new housing on an accelerated timeline while ensuring fiscal responsibility.”
“CannonDesign is honored to be working with two clients with whom we have a rich history, URI and Gilbane Development, in support of URI’s mission to expand and elevate student experience on campus.” said Lynne Deninger, AIA, Principal of CannonDesign.