North Island College Unveils $77M Student Housing Project

On September 19, 2023, North Island College (NIC) officially opened its new student housing project, known as tul’al’txw, which translates to “a house (place) of learning.” This significant development aims to address a critical shortage of accessible and culturally appropriate student housing on Vancouver Island, providing a total of 217 beds for students.

The opening ceremony, led by the K’ómoks First Nation and the K’ómoks Connection Committee, featured a traditional blessing, naming of the buildings, and shared stories from local artists and community members. The project, which began construction in September 2023, includes two linked buildings with 157 student beds and a third building containing 60 family-oriented beds.

Community-Centric Design and Sustainability

Each building in the tul’al’txw complex carries a name that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Comox Valley’s Indigenous communities. The west wing is named tl’emstan, the east wing is called gukwa’las, and the family housing wing is designated as ʔayɛs kw ǰɛǰɛnxwɛgəs.

Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure, highlighted the project’s community impact during the ceremony. “Students of all ages will benefit from North Island College’s first student housing project,” he stated. “This $77 million project uses locally sourced mass timber, a sustainable choice that demonstrates how smart infrastructure investments can strengthen communities and create lasting benefits.”

The design emphasizes sustainability, utilizing mass timber to minimize environmental impact and support British Columbia’s Wood First program. Additionally, much of the construction was completed off-site, which increased efficiency and reduced waste. The buildings meet Step 4 of the B.C. Energy Step Code, the highest standard for energy efficiency in commercial buildings.

Addressing Housing Needs for Students

The new housing project is particularly crucial for students facing barriers to education due to a lack of affordable housing options in the region. Many students at NIC, especially those from rural, Indigenous, or low-income backgrounds, have struggled to find suitable accommodation.

Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, emphasized the importance of on-campus living. “Whether you’re a student on your own or with a family, having the option to live on campus makes it easier for you to succeed in your studies,” she noted. “These family-oriented suites and apartments mean that more people on Vancouver Island can pursue an education and build a better life for their families.”

The funding for the project includes a substantial $75 million investment from the provincial government, complemented by a $2 million contribution from North Island College. This collaborative funding structure reflects a commitment to improving educational resources and housing accessibility for students in the area.

With its unique design and community-oriented approach, the tul’al’txw housing project stands as a model for future developments aimed at enhancing student life and fostering educational success on Vancouver Island.