17cÍøÒ³°æ is $2 million closer to developing its new residential complex for students and the workforce on the Key West Campus thanks to a pledge from the Edward B. and Joan T. Knight Foundation. The gift is the largest contribution to the 17cÍøÒ³°æ Foundation in its history.

 

The College’s new residential complex could include as many as 240 student beds and up to 50 units for 17cÍøÒ³°æ employees, educators, first responders, and health care workers. Dining and recreational facilities may be incorporated in the design to enrich the living experience. When fully operational, this new facility will add to the current 100-bed residence hall, Lagoon Landing, on the waterfront “Point” area on the northwest part of campus.

 

“We are grateful to the Edward B. and Joan T. Knight Foundation for recognizing the College’s residential complex as a worthy investment in educational opportunities and workforce housing in the Keys,” said Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, 17cÍøÒ³°æ President and CEO.

 

“With approximately 90 percent of our current residential students holding jobs that support the Keys’ economy, an increase in the number of beds will result in an increase in the labor market. These student workers will support 17cÍøÒ³°æ’s enrollment growth and fuel the Keys economy with a steady supply of workers without additional pressure on the housing market.”

 

Students have demanded on-campus housing for decades, but state colleges are not typically allowed to have on-campus housing. 17cÍøÒ³°æ had to procure legislative authority and external funding to build Lagoon Landing, which opened in 2011. After several years of operating at capacity, and with a wait list, the College again sought and secured legislative approval to expand the number of student beds and to add workforce housing units.

 

The College is working with industry leaders, philanthropists, and government officials to procure support and seeks another $20 million in funding to begin the project.