Downtown developers partner with MacEwan University to offer discounted rent to students

An aerial image of downtown Edmonton, including Rogers Place and the Stantec and Bell Towers, taken over MacEwan University's clock tower on May 23, 2024. (Cam Wiebe / CTV News Edmonton)

A new pilot project initiated by MacEwan University aims to assist students with off-campus housing in downtown Edmonton.

The project is in collaboration with Qualico Properties and MacLab Development Group and will help to ensure students have access to housing that is affordable, said a statement from the university.

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“Improving housing accessibility and affordability takes a creative approach to address the pressures our students are experiencing,” said Annette Trimbee, president and vice-chancellor at MacEwan University.

The off-campus housing pilot program will begin in summer 2025, offering students discounts on select downtown rentals that are close to campus.

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Students who are interested in accessing the housing initiative can do so by contacting select property owners to learn what units and lease terms are available. A lease on an eligible unit must be signed before Sept. 1, 2025, to qualify for the discount.

Participating properties with available units are The Switch at 10465 101 Street and The Parks at 10135 108 Street.