Stockton University is getting creative in the way it will provide housing to students during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The college on Friday announced a pending agreement with Showboat Hotel Atlantic City that will reserve up to 400 rooms for Stockton students for the fall 2020 and spring 2021 semesters.
The move comes as a result of state guidelines linked to coronavirus that limit the number of students allowed in existing on-campus housing accommodations.
“Stockton promises to provide housing to all students who request it,” Stockton Executive Director of Residential Life Steven Radwanski said. “This agreement ensures that we will have sufficient housing based on current demand.”
According to the university, about one-third of its 10,000 students live in campus housing in Galloway and Atlantic City. Freshmen will be placed only in on-campus housing.
Radwanski said Stockton sought proposals for off-campus housing in Atlantic City based on the number of students who applied to live in campus housing.
Showboat will provide up to 300 single rooms and 100 double rooms as part of its agreement with Stockton. Cost will be $4,500 per semester for a single room and $3,800 per semester for a double room.
Stockton said those rates are “competitive” with similar on-campus housing.
Among the things students living at Showboat can expect:
- At least 250 designated parking spaces for students.
- Complimentary membership to MATRIXX Fitness facility once allowed to reopen.
- Access to entertainment lounge with billiards and ping-pong tables.
- Access to rooftop pool deck.
- Fully equipped business/study lounge.
- Access to on-site meals.
- Rooms equipped with mini fridge, microwave and flat-screen TVs.
Student rooms will be located on floors utilized only by Stockton. University students also will have exclusive access to one full elevator bank for secure access to floors.
Stockton will have staff living on site and Showboat will provide front-desk space for university personnel. Full-time security as well as added safety measures will be in place for students, according to the college.
“We appreciate Showboat’s willingness to welcome our students and provide them with an environment that will be both safe and enjoyable,” Stockton President Harvey Kesselman said.
Showboat will provide linens and weekly room service for students, in addition to laundry at no additional cost.
Free WiFi and cable also are included as part of the agreement.
Stockton is still finalizing transportation arrangements for students living at Showboat, according to the university.