SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Alabama State University (ASU) has officially launched a transformative student housing project with a groundbreaking ceremony held on June 18, paving the way for two new apartment-style residence halls that will add 552 beds to campus by Spring 2027.
ASU President Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr. emphasized the university’s financial strength and vision for the future. “The funds are secured, our contractors have been selected, and they will soon begin work on our outstanding facilities,” he said. “Not all institutions have this opportunity, but our strong financial position allowed us to approach Wall Street directly. We successfully closed a deal worth approximately $87 million in the bond market.”
The new housing is part of the University’s long-term strategic plan to accommodate enrollment growth and enhance student life with modern, community-oriented living spaces. The two buildings will be constructed simultaneously on opposite ends of the Montgomery campus.
Project Details
• East Side Housing: A 288-bed facility will be built just behind the ASU Stadium on Forest Avenue.
• West Side Housing: A 264-bed complex will be located on South University Drive at the former site of the Cynthia Alexander Apartments.
Donald Dotson, ASU’s Vice President for Facilities Management and Operations, is overseeing the project, which he said will bring apartment-style living better aligned with the needs of today’s students.
“This is about more than buildings,” said President Ross. “It’s about creating welcoming spaces where the ASU community can thrive. Alabama State University is synonymous with community, and this project reflects our continued investment in that legacy.”
Architectural Vision
The project is designed by Johnny Raines III, principal architect at BDW Architects, a Montgomery-based firm. Raines spoke with pride about the opportunity to impact future generations of Hornets.
“For BDW, it’s a privilege to help shape a space where generations of Hornets will live, learn, and grow,” Raines said. “We believe great design supports excellent outcomes, and we are proud to be partners in building a legacy that extends beyond the campus and into the heart of this city.”
The construction marks the first major building project at ASU since the completion of ASU Stadium in 2012.