Photo by Evan Krape

In light of the continued evaluation of housing inventory, strategic campus planning, and recognition of increasing costs of operation and maintenance, the University of Delaware has decided to close both Christiana Towers residence halls on the Laird Campus at the end of the 2018-19 academic year. The Towers were first opened in 1972, with a design that reflected a trend toward alternative forms of student housing.

As part of the housing application process for 2019-20, students who indicated a preference for apartment-style spaces and cannot now be accommodated in remaining on-campus apartments have been notified of the decision. Residence Life and Housing is working with them to identify other on-campus spaces or off-campus apartment options in the community, with many alternatives that are on UD shuttle lines, ensuring convenient access to campus. Students with questions about the process may contact reslife-housing@udel.edu. Students who applied within the application period are still guaranteed on-campus housing.

“This was not an easy decision, as we knew it would be an inconvenience,” said José-Luis Riera, interim vice president for student life. “But both buildings are reaching a point where they are beyond their useful life from both a financial and functional perspective, and taking this action now will allow us to better meet the needs of our students going forward, positioning them to be successful in their living and learning environments.”

“Our focus is on student success and that includes managing our facilities efficiently and responsibly to ensure a high-quality student experience,” added Alan Brangman, executive vice president and University treasurer. “Closing the Towers is something that had been talked about over the years as part of that strategic master planning process because it had become apparent the buildings were out-of-date and not in keeping with our vision for the future.”