DeKalb, Ill. — Northern Illinois University students will have a new place to call home in 2012 as Northern Illinois University President John Peters will break ground for a 1,000-bed residential facility for first-year students. The groundbreaking ceremonies will be held at noon Monday, April 18, at the new residence hall construction site north of Lincoln Hall.

The new living complex is scheduled for completion by fall 2012 and will consist of two residential buildings and a community center. The buildings will feature cluster-style living arrangements with enhanced privacy, private bedrooms, semi-private bathrooms and a common space that includes a study area, living area and kitchenette. The community center will contain a food court-style dining area, a recreation facility, multipurpose rooms and a wireless lounge/gaming area.

Construction of the new residential complex is part of a multi-year renovation project that will transform the NIU campus through upgrades to existing facilities and creation of a new outdoor recreation complex.

The NEW|NORTHERN LifeStyle initiative will enhance NIU's efforts to provide the best learning and living environment possible - from technologically sophisticated residence halls with modern amenities to comfortable, functional public spaces.

For more information on this and other building projects, visit the NEW|NORTHERN LifeStyle website at http://newnorthern.niu.edu/Housing/NNL/index.html.

# # #