Core Spaces, a prominent real estate developer, operator, and manager, has announced the commencement of construction on the Hub Athens Dougherty purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project, strategically located near the University of Georgia. This significant undertaking is anticipated to be completed by 2028, adding vital housing to the region.
The Project Overview
Hub Athens Dougherty will encompass 536 units, amounting to a total of 1,656 student beds within a mid-rise structure. The development will offer a diverse array of floor plans, catering to various student preferences, including studios and five-bedroom apartments. This careful planning aims to provide both premium living spaces and more accessible options, ensuring a broad spectrum of choices for students.
Amenities and Features
Designed to foster a sense of community, the project will feature over 27,000 square feet of interior amenities alongside 20,000 square feet of exterior space. Notable amenities include:
- Study lounges and group study rooms
- Fitness and wellness areas
- A resort-style rooftop pool
- Common areas aimed at encouraging social interaction
This plethora of facilities highlights Core Spaces’ commitment to enhancing the student living experience.
Public-Private Partnership Benefits
The Hub Athens Dougherty is a result of a collaborative effort with Athens-Clarke County, showcasing an innovative public-private partnership that not only addresses housing needs but also brings various community benefits. Joe Gatto, Senior Managing Director of Acquisitions at Core Spaces, emphasised the significance of this partnership, stating, “This investment provides infrastructure for this community to thrive for years to come.”
As part of the developmental agreement, Core Spaces is working alongside Athens-Clarke County on several public-benefit initiatives, including a 400-stall public parking facility for downtown Athens, 16,000 square feet of new retail space, and 5,000 square feet of community-targeted retail aimed at affordability.
Community and Historical Enhancements
Further enhancements include improved water and sewer infrastructure to facilitate additional affordable housing developments, along with upgraded streetscapes to support the Jackson Street Art Walk. The project also focuses on preserving and revitalising historical landmarks such as the Foundry building and the Hoyt House, alongside the creation of a new public plaza.
Partnerships and Project Team
The successful realisation of this milestone is attributed to extensive collaboration among Core Spaces, Mallory & Evans, and the broader project team. Jake Strickland, Executive Vice President of Mallory & Evans Development, expressed pride in the partnership, noting, “We are proud of the partnership that has been built and of what the entire team has accomplished in bringing Hub Athens Dougherty to construction.”
The project’s key development and design partners include Mallory & Evans, JNS Realty, Northworks Architects, Studio BNA, and Harken Interiors. Construction is being carried out by a joint venture between Core Spaces and Atlanta-based Juneau Construction Company, marking their twelfth collaborative project. Financing has been secured from Affinius Capital, arranged by TSB Capital Partners.