Community Voices Concerns Over University Student Housing Proposal in Westchester

The Planning Commission of West Chester convened on July 29, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding student housing in the borough. The meeting focused on a proposed plan aimed at increasing student housing availability on campus, addressing a growing concern among residents and university officials alike.

The session began with a presentation highlighting the need for more student housing, as current demand exceeds supply. A commission member emphasized the importance of understanding the university's methodology in determining the required number of additional beds, which has been cited as 800. This figure has raised questions among residents, particularly regarding the validity of the waitlist system for campus housing. The speaker urged for transparency in these numbers, suggesting that the waitlist could serve as a valuable indicator of actual housing needs.

Following this, another commission member echoed these concerns, indicating that there may be inconsistencies in the data presented. They proposed that further analysis and clarification of the housing projections would be beneficial. This member also suggested combining two appendices in the housing report for clarity and compliance with existing ordinances, which could streamline the information presented to the public.

The discussion also touched on the visual representation of borough boundaries in the housing report, with a recommendation to revise the map for better clarity. This was noted as a minor adjustment that could enhance understanding without altering the overall plan.

In conclusion, the commission expressed support for the university's intention to hold public meetings to gather community feedback on the housing plan. Members acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration to ensure that the needs of students and residents are met effectively. The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing student housing shortages while maintaining a focus on livability and diversity within the borough. Further discussions and follow-up actions are anticipated as the commission seeks to refine the proposed plan.