APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Lawrence University is looking forward to potentially creating a “living-learning community” unlike ever before for the small liberal arts college.
Lawrence is a nearly 100% residential campus, meaning all of its students — save fifth-year students and a few others — are required to live on campus all four years. But the university is looking to expand its presence downtown and allow upperclassmen the chance to live in university apartments in the proposed Fox Commons redevelopment.
Developers announced on Monday that the school, as well as Mosaic Family Health and Prevea Health, have agreed to occupy spaces in the proposed redevelopment of the current City Center Plaza.
Lawrence, which had roughly 1,500 students enrolled this last academic year, said it would have 190 beds for students in apartment-style living in the Commons. Those beds would be in a variety of configurations, ranging from six bedrooms to three bedrooms.
The school says the move off campus is an investment in the school’s future, allowing students to build partnerships with community members. Lawrence University President Laurie Carter said she expects business and pre-med students especially to foster relationships downtown, considering the other tenants of the building.
Located about a quarter-mile down College Avenue from the Commons, Lawrence says it would provide shuttles for students, particularly during the winter months.
