Houstonian: Gaertner discusses new housing

From the Houstonian:

Sam Houston State University President James Gaertner met with the student body Wednesday night to inform them of future campus changes, to answer questions, give advice and to hear students' input.

Gaertner believes the time for construction is now because interest rates are at an all-time low. "I am confident that the people who follow us in years to come will say we did a good thing for the university," he said. One of the largest building projects Gaertner discussed was the construction of the Bearkat Village apartment complex, which will be located across from Bowers Stadium. Bearkat Village is expected to be completed for the next academic year.

Gaertner also discussed a structured parking garage located immediately north of the Lee Drain building in the works for Sam Houston students. He hopes to help commuter students and those who park on the south side of campus by building dining facilities in the space where the temporary Barnes & Noble bookstore was located.

The Smith-Hutson Business Building, the Teacher Education Center, and the Farrington building will receive money for renovations and additions as well. One project Gaertner was particularly enthusiastic about was the construction of a visitor's center southwest of the Estill building.