Campus Realty Advisors proposes 665 new student housing units near KSU Marietta

In the heart of Marietta, city council members gathered to discuss a significant redevelopment proposal that could reshape student housing near Kennesaw State University (KSU). The meeting, held on March 12, 2025, focused on a plan from Campus Realty Advisors to transform an existing property on Hudson Road into a purpose-built student housing complex.

The current site, known as Campus Edge, consists of 20 units with 205 beds, but the proposed redevelopment aims to increase this to 240 units and 665 beds across two phases. This ambitious project comes in response to a pressing need for student accommodations, as KSU Marietta's enrollment has surged to over 16,000 students. With only 1,700 on-campus dorm beds available, the demand for off-campus housing exceeds 5,600 beds, highlighting a critical shortage in the area.

The proposed site is strategically located adjacent to the KSU campus, making it an ideal location for students seeking convenient housing options. The redevelopment plan includes enhanced safety features, such as gated access, secure building entry, and surveillance cameras, which are essential for creating a secure living environment for students. Additionally, the project promises modern amenities, including study rooms, fitness centers, and social spaces designed to foster a vibrant student community.

During the public hearing, several community members voiced their support for the project, emphasizing the urgent need for affordable housing options for students. They shared personal experiences of struggling to find suitable accommodations, underscoring the importance of this redevelopment for enhancing educational accessibility in Marietta.

However, concerns were raised regarding parking requirements, with some speakers suggesting that the city’s standards may not align with the unique needs of student housing. The developers argued that their proposed parking ratio meets the standards set by KSU, which are more reflective of student living arrangements.

The financial implications of the redevelopment were also discussed, with estimates suggesting that the new housing complex could significantly increase property tax revenues for the city, potentially generating over $3 million in the next decade.

As the council deliberates on the proposal, the outcome could have lasting effects on the student population at KSU Marietta and the broader community, potentially alleviating housing shortages and enhancing the local economy. The planning commission has already recommended approval, and the council is expected to make a decision in the coming weeks, marking a pivotal moment for student housing in Marietta.