U-M room and board rates approved for 2008-09

May 15, 2008
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ANN ARBOR—The University of Michigan Board of Regents approved at its May 15 meeting the rates for residence hall room and board and apartment rentals for the 2008-09 academic year.

Students in U-M residence halls will pay an average of 4.9 percent more for room and board next academic year. The basic rate per student for a double room with a standard meal plan will be $8,591, an increase of $401 from the 2007-08 academic year.

Northwood Community Apartments monthly rental rates for graduate students and students with families will increase by an average of 3.1 percent. The monthly rate for an unfurnished unit will range from $490 per person for a shared two-bedroom unit to $1,194 for an air-conditioned three-bedroom town house. The increase reflects inflationary adjustment on utilities and general expenses as well as 0.8 percent for capital improvements.

Of the residence hall room and board rate, 2.9 percent reflects inflationary adjustment on general operations and utilities, food supplies and ordinary repairs and improvements. The remaining 2 percent is committed to funding previously approved elements of the Residential Life Initiatives (RLI), a planned capital program to renovate and expand University housing and dining facilities.

This fall the campus community will see the fulfillment of two important RLI achievements. Mosher Jordan Hall will reopen after two years of comprehensive upgrades and renovation. At the same time, the new Hill Dining Center will open with a contemporary dining experience. Other RLI projects include ongoing installation of new fire alarm and suppression systems, the renovation of Stockwell Hall, and the construction of the residential facilities within the North Quad complex.

“Our commitment to supportive and dynamic residential experiences is at the heart of our mission for the students,” said Carole Henry, assistant vice president for student affairs and director of housing. “We are creating new living spaces that respond to the needs of today?s and future students ? not only personal comforts, but also places for community and learning opportunities. That we can strengthen the connection of social and academic vitality for our students has tremendous value.”

University Housing developed its rate recommendations in collaboration with key University business offices, the student Residence Halls Association, and the Northwood Community Apartments Rate Review Committee. The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs ultimately proposes the recommended rate schedule to the Board of Regents, which has the final authority in setting major University fees, including room and board.