news-record.com

UNCG trustees made a great decision Sept. 10 when they opted to renovate rather than replace seven residence halls on the university's historic quad. The plan also calls for construction of a new dorm elsewhere on campus.

Not stated at the time was how to pay for the projects, estimated to cost at least $85 million. Available funds aren't just lying around.

Now, university officials say they'll issue long-term bonds and repay debt over many years with fees paid by students who will live in the facilities.

It's a sensible solution. Individual homeowners do the same in taking out 25-year mortgages. They borrow against their future earnings.

UNCG found strong sentiment in favor of saving its oldest dorms and preserving the character of its quad, even though it might have cost less to replace them with modern facilities. As Chancellor Linda Brady noted, "UNCG has demonstrated our commitment to historically sensitive renovation" many times. It will continue that tradition.

But, while retaining their charming appearance, the residence halls will be updated for comfort and convenience. The result ought to make campus living appealing to more students.

As enrollment growth continues, UNCG also wants to house more students on campus. Doing so is better for them and better for the university, creating a more close-knit, academically cohesive community. It's setting the ambitious goal of doubling its housing capacity over the next 10 years.

That will be an expensive undertaking. At the same time, however, it also means doubling housing revenue. And students who live on campus are more likely to eat on campus, multiplying food-service income.

The renovated quad dorms may be a coveted residential location for many students, but others may prefer brand-new housing. The point is to keep more of them on campus, where they can experience college life 24-7.