Major construction projects underway aim to redefine WMU campus experience
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A season of transformation is underway at Western Michigan University as three major construction projects begin to reshape campus this summer, each designed to enhance student well-being, sustainability and community connection.
From a cutting-edge residence hall to an expansive pedestrian green space and more, WMU’s campus is buzzing with activity aimed at welcoming Broncos with open space and modern infrastructure. View the summer project map
New residence hall will offer sustainable first-year living experience
Construction has begun on a state-of-the-art residence hall in Goldsworth Valley set to open in fall 2026. Designed with first-year students in mind, the Golden Oaks will house more than 1,000 students in modern, pod-style rooms featuring common spaces that foster connection and community.
“This is an exciting project,” says Sara VanderVeen, senior director of planning, design and construction. “There are some cool synergies in the way we’re thinking about student success, well-being and how we use space to support it.”
Dr. Barry Olson, associate vice president for student affairs, adds the space is designed to meet students where they are while also allowing flexibility to address future needs as they arise.
“This facility will be a new, vibrant residence hall that will reshape the on-campus student experience,” Olson says. “The Valleys represent decades of engagement for our student body. We recognize that many friendships were built, and remain to this day, because of their time living on campus.”
The project is Western’s first large-scale design-build effort and its first major use of mass timber construction, a sustainable building method using engineered wood for the structure and floors. Not only does this reduce the building's carbon footprint, but it also allows for quicker construction because, as the interior timber elements are being prefabricated ahead of site completion.
The residence hall, designed by Hanbury and built by the Chrisman Company, will see work on the structure and enclosure begin in mid-2025.
Pedestrian green space, gateway project transforms West Michigan Avenue into a walkable core
This summer also marks the beginning of a bold reimagining of West Michigan Avenue. This month the University will begin to convert the stretch between Henry Hall and Ring Road into a pedestrian-only mall.
The project, expected to be completed this fall, will include wide walkways, seating areas, enhanced landscaping and a new gateway entrance to campus.
“This is about creating a space where students and employees want to come and be,” VanderVeen says. “It’s about environmental well-being and vibrant pedestrian spaces—and it’s beautiful.”
The redevelopment will include the removal of parking lots 16 and 94 west of University Arena, lots 68 and 69 in front of Henry Hall, parking across from the Seibert Administration Building; installation of sustainable landscaping and wayfinding; and the creation of green space around the iconic Gathering Tree Fountain. The area is targeting Sustainable SITES Certification, a sustainability-focused rating system for landscapes and outdoor spaces, which reinforces WMU’s long-term commitment to ecological campus development.
Demolishing Vandercook Hall and reclaiming space for nature
Vandercook Hall, a long-decommissioned former residence hall and office building, is being removed this summer to make way for additional green space. Hazardous material abatement begins late May, with full demolition scheduled for June and July. The area will be restored as green space by mid-August.
“We’re not just tearing something down,” VanderVeen says. “We’re asking: What does it mean to be sustainable in the future? What kind of environment do we need to be successful with our mission, and how does that translate into our physical space?”
The project team has also been working to preserve elements of this building on Western’s East Campus just south of Waldo Stadium on Oakland Drive, including salvaging original stone reliefs from its entryways for potential reuse or display in the future.
These high-visibility projects are just the beginning. Behind the scenes, more than 50 additional campus upgrades are also underway this summer, including fire alarm system updates to restroom renovations and maintenance, making use of the quieter months to improve infrastructure campuswide.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.