Edward Waters University to build first on-campus dorm since 1982

Edward Waters University, Florida’s oldest historically Black university, has announced plans to construct its first on-campus dormitory since 1982. The project is part of a $33 million capital improvement initiative for the New Town-based campus.

To fund these improvements, the university secured $25 million in financing through the Rice Capital Access Program. Additionally, the city of Jacksonville has allocated $2 million from its 2026 budget to support the construction of a track and field facility intended for use by both students and the local community. The new dormitory is expected to open for the Fall 2028 semester.

University President and CEO A. Zachary Faison noted that the new housing is essential for accommodating the institution's growing traditional student population. Faison reported that the university has seen a 37% increase in enrollment since 2019, reaching 1,286 students in the Fall 2026 semester.