In a few short years, Tri-State University will no longer offer dormitory housing to students, according to the master plan driving the recent transformation of the campus.

The housing evolution began two years ago with the construction of the Trine and Ingledue villas, which provided apartment-style living for 120 students. It continued with the opening of the University Center, Moss Street, and Kinney Street student apartments in August, which contributed 256 beds to the effort.

The momentum will continue this year, with the breaking of ground for four new student apartment buildings to overlook TSU’s scenic Zollner Golf Course, providing living space for 400 more students.

In addition to the golf course view, the fully furnished suites will showcase leather furniture, a common gathering area with fireplace and lounge, a large screen television, screened porch, granite counter tops, and individual climate control.

The first building will open in August to house freshman honor students. The remaining three will open in January 2009. Design Collaborative, which orchestrated the restoration of the C.W. Sponsel Administration Center and has anchored other TSU building projects, is the architect. Local contractor Jim Ingledue Construction Inc. is the builder.

The year 2009 will also bring the razing of Stewart Hall, the last large dormitory on campus, and the construction of six new lighted tennis courts on the site.