Research shows that students who live on campus have higher GPAs and graduate faster than their peers. That’s why San Diego State University is increasing its residential capacity with a new mixed-use campus gateway.

With two six-story buildings and one 300-space parking structure, South Campus Plaza will house more than 600 students while offering a shopping and dining destination for the campus and its neighbors. This addition will help SDSU achieve its goal to house 10,000 students either on or within walking distance of campus. And it will infuse a more active urban environment into the surrounding suburban area.

Designed with pedestrians and cyclists in mind, the project is adjacent to the SDSU Transit Center and the newly built Aztec Center on the eastern edge of campus. A public green space will invite residents and students to relax and recreate. Planned uses for the ground-level retail include a community grocery store, a national brand restaurant, and a mix of other campus- and community-focused stores.

The residence halls will offer double-occupancy student rooms, plus apartments for residential education staff and visiting scholars. The halls also will feature student learning spaces, faculty offices, and lounges, along with student amenities such as bicycle storage and laundry.