What is the expansion all about? Why is an expansion needed?
Trent University Durham GTA is a community of scholars on the grow. With increased enrolment at our Durham campus, thanks to our transformative learning experience and dynamic academic programs, we require new space to accommodate this growth. Construction has begun on a new residence and academic building, slated to open in fall 2020. This exciting expansion allows Trent Durham to meet all of the needs for our growing community.
What is the benefit of the expansion for the community?
A growing student community leads to community development. Currently, Trent’s Durham GTA campus contributes $47 million annually in economic impact to the Durham Region, which will grow to $80 million following the investment in the campus expansion. The community will benefit from more students living and studying in the region as the expansion will provide more learning opportunities and training that prepare students to contribute to community improvements and be an integral part of improving our community, before and after graduation. The space itself is also open to the public: socialize, learn, study and engage in life on campus. Rent a room, join the public lecture series, take part in Archaeology Day or enjoy the new green outdoor courtyard. Maybe this space becomes your new favourite lunch spot.
What are the features of the new building?
The bright, contemporary, six-storey building will continue the long-standing Trent tradition of collegiate communities and will fully integrate both living and learning spaces. The top four floors will be devoted to the creation of 200 residence spaces, with single and double room, as well as common hangout spaces with a kitchenette (and laundry). The first two floors will offer state-of-the-art academic space including a 100-seat tiered lecture hall and two 64-seat classrooms. Other features include group study spaces, expanded hands-on learning spaces, and public forum space to celebrate our rich community culture, as well as a new central outdoor courtyard.
When will the new building open?
The new building will is slated for opening in fall 2020.
Will there be disruptions from construction for people living in the area surrounding the campus?
Trent University Durham GTA is paying close attention to any disruptions since classes and programming will continue on campus during construction. We will aim to minimize these disruptions as much as possible for students and for our neighbours. One thing we are focused on is minimizing noise and maximizing privacy by maintaining a tree line.
When will construction take place?
Construction started in May 2019 and will occur on site in accordance with local City of Oshawa and Region of Durham by-laws. We will be updating this section of the website with relevant construction details, as they are released. You can follow us on social media to stay up to date on the construction progress.
Is there enough parking to accommodate this expansion?
As part of the expansion project, we have added 90 additional parking spots behind the existing campus building. Existing parking spaces in front of the campus will remain unchanged. Parking for students, staff, faculty and visitors remains free of charge.
Will traffic be a problem with construction and the additional students?
As the student population grows over the next few years, we’ll be watching how it affects traffic flow. Currently, there are two entry points to the Durham campus, which should minimize congestion during construction.
Where can I learn more about Trent University and the Durham GTA campus?
We welcome community members to learn more about our campus and program offerings at trentu.ca/durham and on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @TrentUDurham - follow #GrowingTrentUDurham for expansion stories. Please email us at durhamexpansion@trentu.ca if you have any questions or feedback. We look forward to hearing from you!