By Andrew Skerritt
Florida A&M University Office of Housing invested $3.5 million in renovations to modernize and update amenities in Palmetto South and Phase III on campus residences this summer.
“We think students will be pleasantly surprised with the new amenities. We considered their recommendations,” said Vice President for Student Affairs William E. Hudson, Jr., Ph.D. The updated facilities include new look-like hardwood, LVT floors, new appliances, such as refrigerators and microwaves, new counter tops, and modern showers, Hudson said. “We hope students will value and appreciate the effort and the cost associated with the renovations,” he said.
Palmetto South and Phase III apartment residences each includes 356 beds for freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors. As part of the renovations, new air handlers, HVAC controls were installed, and a boiler that was replaced in Palmetto South.
In Phase III, workers replaced exhaust vans, pantry doors and windows, cleaned ducts/air handlers, and added new bedroom furniture. Students who lived in Palmetto South got new furniture in 2022.
New bathroom vanities, toilets, range hoods and microwaves, kitchen cabinets and countertops, shower stalls and drain pans were installed in both student residences. Both buildings were treated for pests and sanitized, said Office of University Housing Director Jennifer Wilder, Ed.D.
“We took the opportunity to improve our facilities and add amenities comparable to off-campus housing,” Wilder said. “Our students will appreciate the new look.”
There are 2,679 on campus beds. While administrators predict that on-campus housing will be at 98 to 100 percent full, all the male housing slots have already been filled.