Construction is underway for the new $186.5 million Commonwealth Honors College Honors Dorm and Classroom Complex currently being built next to the Recreation Center.

Commonwealth Honors College Priscilla Clarkson said that the project is funded by bonds, meaning the university borrows money with a bond and pays off the cost of the dorm by renting the dorm rooms out to students. There has also been money independently raised through donors.

Some students like sophomore Meredith DuShane believe that UMass should be building housing complexes for everybody, not just for CHC students.

“There is not enough housing for everybody,” said UMass sophomore Meredith Dushane. “[UMass should] use the money for larger housing complexes that will house everybody.”

Commonwealth College Junior Kerry McDonough, however, believes the addition of a Commonwealth College Complex will help UMass shed its party school image and attract top students.

“When I was in high school, UMass was considered a second tier school,” she said. “But now my brother and his friends are excited about the new Commonwealth College Complex. Top students want to come to UMass.”

—    Brianna Corcoran, Collegian Staff