The provincial government announced $4 million on Tuesday to create additional student housing at Mount Allison University.

The Sackville university will receive $162,000 each year for the next 25 years to help cover the borrowing costs associated with the renovation of Harper Hall. This upgraded facility is set to reopen this month, adding 147 new beds for students on campus.

Post-Secondary Education Minister Greg Turner emphasized that boosting the availability of on-campus student housing is a fundamental aspect of New Brunswick’s provincial housing strategy.

“We are pleased to partner with Mount Allison University on this project, which will enhance the campus experience for present and future students,” said Turner.

As part of the Housing for All initiative, the government has pinpointed the enhancement of student housing access at publicly funded universities as a crucial goal.

In an effort to enhance its housing strategy, the government has established a fund aimed at assisting universities with pre-construction expenses and annual costs for a duration of up to 25 years.

This funding, which is focused on long-term results, is designed to promote the development of student housing across seven campuses belonging to the province’s four publicly-funded universities, thereby freeing up additional housing options for non-students.

Ongoing efforts by the government involve partnerships with the University of New Brunswick and l’Université de Moncton to develop agreements that will enhance on-campus housing for students.