Administration Jan News Today

State Sens. Donna Mercado Kim and Donovan Dela Cruz and other lawmakers have accused UH administrators of mismanaging the UH Manoa student housing operation, which earns $23 million a year, and houses and serves about 3,100 students.

Tensions flared anew Wednesday in the first public meeting of the legislative season between University of Hawaii President David Lassner and some of his key critics in the state Senate, as UH administrators faced pointed questions over such problems as a dormitory that has stood vacant for seven years due to disrepair.

A new, larger entrance to Paradise Palms will be built, and McCarthy Mall’s tree lined walkway will be widened to add seating for about 500 people.

The Student Success Center will be a vibrant hub of student activity that will encourage students to stay on campus, between classes and after hours.

The facility will consist of two buildings and include 316 units with 558 beds, a childcare facility, retail and café space, bike storage, study rooms, laundry facility, mail and package room, outdoor amenity decks and on-site management.

The approximately $156.9 million facility on Dole Street across from Frear Hall is expected to be completed in time for the fall 2025 semester.

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa has announced that their plans for a new student housing building project will commence in September 2023.