College of Charleston seeks $17M for Berry Residence Hall renovations and property purchase

The recent meeting of the Joint Bond Review Committee highlighted significant proposals from the College of Charleston aimed at enhancing campus facilities and addressing housing needs. The committee reviewed two major projects that underscore the university's commitment to improving student living conditions and expanding its infrastructure.

The first proposal involves a request to increase the budget for the interior renovations of Berry Residence Hall to $17 million. This funding will come from auxiliary housing revenue and capital improvement project funds. The renovations are essential to replace outdated HVAC systems and upgrade resident suites in the 183,514 square-foot facility, which was originally built in 1989 and last renovated in 2003. The planned improvements include mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work, as well as upgrades to elevators, roofing, and windows. Notably, the renovations will cater to honors college residents and support various programs on the first floor. The university has assured that there will be no increase in fees as a result of this project, with a portion of tuition already designated for permanent improvements.

The second proposal discussed was the acquisition of a 1.13-acre parcel at 81 Wentworth Street, which includes a vacant parking garage. The College of Charleston seeks to establish a phase 2 budget of $5.035 million for this purchase, funded by state appropriations and auxiliary parking revenues. This acquisition is part of a property exchange with the city of Charleston, where the college will also transfer a 0.69-acre parcel containing a 601-space parking garage at 34 Saint Philip Street to the city. The city council has offered the Wentworth Street property for $5.015 million, and the garage will be demolished as part of a separate project.

These initiatives reflect the College of Charleston's proactive approach to enhancing its facilities and addressing the growing needs of its student population. The anticipated timeline for contract execution for the Berry Residence Hall renovations is May 2025, with completion expected by August 2025. As these projects move forward, they promise to significantly improve the living and learning environment for students at the university.