Regents approve Colorado Avenue student housing project, name 'Code Talker Hall'

The University of Colorado Board of Regents at its Nov. 6 meeting approved plans that pave a path forward for new student housing along Colorado Avenue in Boulder—a critical strategic investment in student success, affordability and sustainability.

 

A rendering shows a student housing design along Colorado Avenue in Boulder.

The approval allows CU Boulder to enter into a public-private partnership with developer Morgan Stone Everett to construct suite- and apartment-style student housing near the intersection of Colorado Avenue and Regent Drive. The project is expected to house about 1,650 students.

Construction could begin as early as summer 2026, with a targeted opening in fall 2028.

“We know that student housing—and student housing that is close, on campus and affordable—is one of the most critical tactics that we can do to improve our student outcomes, student success and, ultimately, graduation,” said Todd Haggerty, CU Boulder’s senior vice chancellor for finance and business, who presented the project.

In addition to offering market-competitive rental rates, the project supports broader campus goals related to sustainability and community impact. 

The units will match campus aesthetics and be powered solely by electricity, making it one of the largest student housing developments in the country to run on electric power. Its proximity to campus will reduce reliance on cars, cutting down on traffic congestion and emissions, and the design is intended to improve cyclist and pedestrian safety.

CU Boulder representatives have met with community members four times this fall to discuss the project and address neighbors’ concerns related to size, utilities and shade created by the project. They will continue to provide regular updates to the community as the project progresses.

Code Talker Hall

The board unanimously approved the naming of a new 332-bed residence hall on the Boulder campus as Code Talker Hall, honoring the legacy of Native American Code Talkers who played a pivotal role in the Allied victories during World Wars I and II.

Scheduled to open in fall 2026 in the north Boulder Creek neighborhood of Main Campus, the hall was previously referred to as “Residence One.” The new name reflects a deep respect for the historical significance of the land. This naming not only commemorates the heroic contributions of Code Talkers and veterans but also supports CU Boulder’s land acknowledgment by recognizing the 48 tribal nations with historical and present ties to Colorado.

“Far too often, we think that doing land acknowledgements or something similar is the most we can do, and the truth is, it’s the least we can do,” said Regent Nolbert Chavez. “So doing this and taking steps towards recognizing the sacrifices folks have made and the contributions they have made is a step forward.”

Code Talker Hall will stand as a permanent tribute to Indigenous excellence, resilience and cultural pride, embodying the university’s commitment to honoring the past while educating future generations.

Arapahoe Avenue purchase

Regents also approved the acquisition of a property located at 2350 Arapahoe Avenue in Boulder, marking a strategic milestone in CU Boulder’s long-term campus development plan.

The 0.67-acre parcel, which includes a commercial building currently leased to El Rincón Cocina y Tequila restaurant, is surrounded on three sides by university-owned land. The acquisition completes CU Boulder’s northeast gateway to Main Campus, aligning with the 2021 Campus Master Plan and enabling future academic, residential or mixed-use redevelopment in a transit-oriented corridor. 

No immediate changes are planned for the property, and CU Boulder plans to continue leasing the building to El Rincón for the foreseeable future.

The $3.925 million purchase, funded entirely through CU Boulder Real Estate Services and General Campus Reserves, will not involve any debt issuance, ensuring that the investment does not impact tuition or operational budgets. The property will continue to generate rental income in the near term, offsetting holding costs while the university shapes a long-term vision for the site. 

Other business

At the meeting, regents also: 

• Received an update on campus planning for the Sundance Film Festival and CU Boulder’s 150th anniversary celebrations next year from Ann Schmiesing, senior vice chancellor for strategic initiatives, who filled in for Chancellor Justin Schwartz at the meeting.
• Approved recipients for honorary degrees, Distinguished Service Awards and University Medals. The recipients will be publicly recognized this spring.
• Approved seven new distinguished professors, including six from the Boulder campus: Kristen Carpenter, Russell Cropanzano, Marcia Douglas, Noah Finkelstein, Karl Linden and Jade Morton. The seventh, Marc Moss, is at the CU School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz campus.
• Approved one sabbatical and one tenure appointment for CU Boulder faculty.
• Approved the naming of Ceal Barry Plaza outside the CU Events Center in honor of the Hall of Fame women’s basketball coach.
• Approved a new bachelor’s of science degree in Integrated Business and Engineering in the Leeds School of Business.
• Passed a memorial resolution honoring Regent Emeritus Norwood Robb.