A mix of heavy equipment is a familiar sight on campus, as Alabama State University (ASU) prepares for two new student housing complexes. Work on the $77 million project began in July 2025.
"As ASU continues to strategically grow our enrollment, expanding student housing is necessary," said ASU President Quinton T. Ross Jr. "This is a key component of our strategic plan ‘Focus 2030' and is essential for continuous improvement and growth.
"Through progressive thinking and transformative actions, we are committed to moving forward. These projects are not just buildings; they are bridges to future investments in the student experience and the vitality of our university community."
David Campbell/Alabama State University photo
According to Ross, the new housing will enhance the student experience.
"With the growing demand for on-campus living, these complexes will provide our students with peace of mind, allowing them to focus on achieving their dreams of graduating from ASU right here on campus."
The Forest Ave. site on the east end of the campus will house 238 beds in five buildings, three floors each. The total square footage of each building is 20,963. This site also will contain a 4,189-sq.-ft. cafe, as well as two free-standing storm shelters.
The University Drive site on the west end of the campus will house 260 beds in 11 buildings, with the same square footage, number of floors and design. It will feature one free-standing storm shelter.
Donald Dotson, ASU vice-president of facilities management and operations, said the university has not constructed or renovated any of its residence halls since 2010.
"There is a need for more modern living options that offer many of the amenities students desire during their post-secondary experience. Each unit will consist of four bedrooms, two baths, a common area and a warming kitchen. The addition of 498 new beds will accommodate projected enrollment increases, as well as make ASU an option for students who might not have considered us for their college experience."
Dotson said it's exciting to see construction under way.
"This period marks a significant and transformative era in the history of ASU. The campus community, including students, faculty and staff, is animated by the visible progress. The demolition of outdated structures, the meticulous grading of land, the establishment of new foundations and the persistent hum of construction equipment all signal the university's forward momentum.
"Alumni, too, share in this enthusiasm, recognizing that these state-of-the-art facilities will further empower them to advocate for and represent their alma mater to prospective scholars."
DJ Pearson/Alabama State University photo
For marketing coordinator Ashley Knight, the groundbreaking ceremony marked an essential step in strengthening and advancing the mission of ASU.
"It was inspiring to see support from faculty, staff, alumni and community members. Their presence underscored a shared commitment to ensuring bright futures for our students. It was both a celebration of progress and a reflection of the collective investment in the growth and success of ASU."
General contractor Bear Brothers Inc., was awarded the Forest Ave. site, while Design To Build LLC, is facilitating the University Drive site. Barganier Davis Williams Architects Associated serves as the architect of record.
Johnny Raines III, managing partner of BDW Architects in Montgomery, said that the installation of underground stormwater systems and the building of retaining walls are essential components of construction.
"A stormwater drainage system is a critical element of any project. Each apartment site must connect to the existing drainage systems of the surrounding buildings. Civil engineering design ensures that the subsurface infrastructure prevents flooding throughout the lifespan of both the apartments and the neighboring structures."
Both apartment sites required the demolition of old structures, buried rubble and debris that included foundation footings, tree stumps, abandoned utilities and unsuitable topsoil. Selective demolition at each site took approximately 1.5 months to complete.
"The process involved the use of specialized heavy equipment, including excavators, backhoe loaders and bulldozers," said Raines. "Much of the debris was transported to landfills designated for demolition materials."
Excavation work is proceeding as planned. This includes the removal of unsuitable soils to make way for properly engineered soils.
David Campbell/Alabama State University photo
The complexes require retaining walls to stabilize the soil on the steep site and to create level building pads for the new construction. Engineers also assessed the strength of the soil across the entire building site to determine its suitability for construction. In many cases, including the university apartments, the engineer may require the addition of compacted engineered soil as part of the building's foundation.
"The removal of unsuitable soils is typically determined after soil testing is completed," said Raines. "A geotechnical engineer conducts a soil analysis across the entire building site at selected locations to assess whether the soil is strong enough for construction."
Recent work on both projects involved having the underground stormwater systems installed, plumbing rough-in and retaining walls erected. Effective coordination among various construction trades, including civil, electrical and plumbing, has been critical to ensure a smooth progression of the project.
Significant milestones will include pouring concrete slabs and erecting each apartment building.
The primary equipment being required during construction includes dozers, excavators, backhoes and dump trucks.
Raines acknowledged that playing a part in such an important project is extremely rewarding.
"Contributing to the construction of apartments that will serve students for years to come is incredibly meaningful. Being part of a team that enhances student life on campus ultimately enriches the college experience for many."
Ross added, "It signifies legacy and longevity, knowing that these new student apartments will serve generations long after many of us are gone. It is truly awe-inspiring." CEG
