The new units will include studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom layouts. Developer Larry Winokur said he believes the new construction will appeal to junior- and senior-level students who are looking for more personal space.
“These will have a more mature feel to them with edgier furniture, washer/dryers in most units and fewer bedroom options,” said Winokur, adding that the first phase development included 3- and 4-bedroom units. “We knew there was a market for smaller units where the residents would have more privacy.”
Winokur said the new units are completely booked for fall. In total, about 66 percent of the complex is leased for the September move-in date—on pace with last year’s leasing numbers.
“After we opened in September 2014 at almost 100 percent leased, we were comfortable moving forward with additional units,” he said. “We anticipate we’ll be full for the fall if we do the same amount of leasing in July and August as we did last year.”
The Union at Dearborn opened in September 2013 as the first housing option specifically designed for UM-Dearborn students in more than 25 years. The privately owned complex, located across Evergreen Road from UM-Dearborn’s main campus, opened with 145 units and 505 beds in 2013.
“The addition of student housing provides our students with a true residential campus experience, and it allows the university to recruit students from outside of our traditional marketing area,” said Ray Metz, interim vice chancellor for enrollment management and student life. “It is very exciting and encouraging news that student demand has led to the expansion of The Union.”
UM-Dearborn continues to lease 15,000 square feet within The Union for student life activities and office space.
