AN: After 50 years, FSCJ works to develop student housing

Action News

http://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/news/local/after-50-years-fscj-works-develop-student-housing/nmyxN/

By Lorena Inclán

This year, Florida State College at Jacksonville is celebrating 50 years, and soon students could get a whole new college experience.

“I'm looking for our engagement in downtown revitalization as a face-lift, not only a face-lift for the city, but a face-lift for FSCJ because it lifts us to the next level,” said Dr. Cynthia Bioteau, president of FSCJ.

The next level is student housing.

An abandoned building on Church Street could be a potential site for the project. Its five stories could be turned into anywhere from 50 to 75 units.

On Hogan Street another building is being considered that would allow the school to open a culinary arts restaurant within walking distance for many downtown students.

Students like Randy Baggs welcome the idea.

“It will definitely help with campus life and campus experience and staying focused on your schooling,” said Baggs.

Bioteau said it’s too soon to say how much it will cost, which is being discussed with city leaders now, but she hopes the city and private donors will pitch in.

In the end, she said it’s a win for everyone.

“[We] Will very much contribute to the economic development of the city. If you have students down there, not only are they living there, but they're accessing the restaurants, they're accessing the services there,” said Bioteau.

The goal is to have the buildings finished by the fall of 2016.

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