New Residence Finally Opens

(Cadre Jan. 2006) New Residence Finally Opens -

A new year is here and with it the opening of UPEI’s new residence, the aptly named ‘new residence’. While some students were pretty much moved in at the time this article was written, many more were still waiting for a chance to swipe their keycards and sleep on their much larger beds.
The $11 million facility, after a six month extension, is finally opening its doors to students. Hosting a new keycard security system, where students have to swipe to get in and out, along with new washers and dryers and everything else, most of the students we spoke to were happy to be there.
“I love it,” said Nick Jessome, a 1st year arts student. “It’s huge (compared to marion). I love having my own room.”
With separate, large bedrooms, double or 54 inch beds and having to share your bathroom with only one person, the New Residence is a definite step up from the aging Marion Hall. High ceilings and cool colours add to the sense of largess that permeates the new facility. It also connects directly to the cafeteria, so new residence students don’t have to leave the building in the cold to eat.
Although the fridges, microwaves, TVs and internet weren’t installed yet, it was a gaff on the part of the phone company that kept students fro mmoving in right away. Without phones in the rooms, the university would be liable if anything were to happen, like a fire or polar bear attack.
While many students were waiting since September to move in, Jessome was glad the wait was over.
“Oh yes, I’ve been waiting a while,” said Jessome. “It was definitely worth the wait.”