FGCU builds affordable staff housing to attract top talent

LEE COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) is breaking new ground as the first of Florida's 12 public universities to build employee housing. The project, known as "Eagle View Village," aims to alleviate the financial burden for new hires.

Construction is underway on land the university owns behind the Target at Gulf Coast Town Center. The housing is designed to be temporary, offering accommodations for one to three years at rents approximately 20% below market rates.

"Southwest Florida is a beautiful place to live," said Kitty Green, FGCU's Vice President, University Advancement, highlighting the appeal of the area.

"But it's also expensive," Green continued, addressing the financial challenges faced by newcomers.

"And we have experienced a lot of sticker shock when faculty come down here and realize that," Green said.

These new accommodations are not dorm rooms, but rather small single-family homes. The development is modeled after a community built by Soltura in Bonita, with co-founder Danville Leadbetter providing insights into the design.

"We have the kitchen here... open floor plan kitchen with... you know... upgraded appliances," said Leadbetter as he gave WINK News a tour.

The homes will feature impact doors and windows, maintenance-free lawns, and some feature two bedrooms upstairs, both with ensuite bathrooms.

"FGCU really aspires to be an employer of choice," said Green, emphasizing the university's commitment to attracting top talent.

The construction is expected to be completed by the end of the year, with the first residents moving in by January. Initially, some current faculty will also have the opportunity to apply for these new housing options.