Wallace State proposes new housing project for student families

A new student housing project is being planned for Wallace State Community College in Hanceville, hoping to provide extra support to students with children.

The Wallace State Lions Village is expected to be funded through $2.5 million in federal funding announced by the college and Rep. Robert Aderholt last month.

The funding will support construction of a tiny home village designed for student families with an on-campus childcare facility. Together, the project is intended to remove significant barriers to student success by addressing two of the most pressing challenges facing student parents: affordable housing and accessible childcare.

“This $2.5 million congressionally directed spending award for the Lions’ Village project is a game-changer. By co-locating micro-homes designed for families with a state-of-the-art childcare facility right here on campus, we are creating a holistic support system that allows student parents to focus on their education without the constant worry of where they will live or who will care for their children.”

Dr. Vicki Karolewics, Wallace State Community College President

The proposal is for a lot just north of College Drive NE to the east of Highway 31.

Lions Village

The community is expected to contain “micro-dwellings” which will be roughly 400-500 square feet each, according to a report from ABC 33/40.

The current proposal is to provide 10 of these homes but the college’s plan allows future expansion after the initial phase of the project.

Wallace State officials say the initiative is still in the early planning stages, with hopes to begin accepting housing applications in approximately 18 months.

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