NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Iona College was granted a special permit and site plan approval for a multi-use building on North Avenue by New Rochelle’s Planning Board after a public hearing on December 15, 2014. Iona’s goal for this project is to increase the quality and quantity of residential housing options for students while participating in the revitalization of North Avenue.
“This is an important step forward to enhance the student experience at Iona College,” said Dr. Joseph E. Nyre, president of Iona College.
Located across from the campus’ main entrance, the building is styled to reflect a “modern Iona” with a vibrant streetscape and design complementary to nearby College and community structures. The first floor will contain taxable retail and restaurant space open to the public with adjacent on-site parking.
The upper six floors will provide attractive apartment-style housing for approximately 310 students, complete with on-site security and management.
“The proposed on-campus residence hall for upper-level students at North Avenue and Summit has been warmly welcomed by the student body,” said CJ Funaro, president, Iona Student Government Association. “It is also a direct result of a process that included student engagement from the very beginning. The Student Government Association is pleased that College officials, the New Rochelle Planning Board, and many members of the community support the proposal.”
In an effort to address neighbors’ concerns, students occupying the residence hall will be required to park on campus. Iona announced a new resident student parking process with increased enforcement to be implemented in September 2015.
Investment in North Avenue Revitalization
“We are working hard to be good neighbors to our good neighbors and are pleased to support the revitalization of North Avenue,” said President Nyre. Additional investments in North Avenue were also introduced by the College. Iona supports new and existing restaurants on North Avenue by adding them to the College meal plan and recently invested funds to assist the City in making roadway improvements on City property in the vicinity of the College. Enhancements to traffic signals, pedestrian access and drainage are intended to manage traffic flow and safety across North Avenue and will be provided as conditions of approval. Directional changes and signage along White Oak Street will direct traffic flow back to North Avenue to minimize impact on residential streets.
Community Planning Process
During the planning process, the College worked with neighbors and community leaders, New Rochelle’s Planning Board, the City’s professional staff, as well as students, faculty and staff. Ongoing meetings to share status and address concerns are being planned to continue through the construction period.
“We look forward to working with Iona College in the implementation of their master plan.” said Charles B. Strome III, New Rochelle City Manager. “The proposed development of College facilities on North Avenue will enhance existing commercial uses, attract new businesses and encourage revitalization along the entire North Avenue corridor.”
For more vist: http://www.iona.edu/About/Iona-in-Community/North-Avenue-Residence-Hall.aspx