The University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) is unveiling plans to transform campus life and amenities, marking its latest move to create 1.2 million square feet in mixed-use space, generate $3.7 billion in economic activity and expand housing options.
The university has introduced the next stage of the project – an ice rink and hotel designed to attract students, residents and visitors. While the Request for Proposals (RFP) is expected to be approved and released in the coming weeks, UMass Lowell officials haven’t released a cost estimate or construction date for the second ice rink and hotel. The university is expected to take a public-private partnership approach to development.
The projects are part of the holistic $800 million Lowell Innovation Network Corridor (LINC) initiative – an ambitious development plan to transform a portion of the campus and downtown area. The completed corridor, in addition to boosting economic gains and expanding opportunities, will emphasize greenspace development, refreshed infrastructure, recreation and job creation.
Once given the official green light, the university will break ground on the project adjacent to the Tsongas Center. The center currently serves as the headquarters for the school’s Division 1 hockey team. The indoor ice rink will provide a second facility for the team to practice and serve as an events space for home games and other activities.
Currently, the city has no hotels in the downtown area, causing an inconvenience to visitors interested in campus activities and events. UMass Lowell’s vision to build a hotel will provide essential housing in close proximity to the Tsongas Center and practice rink. While the hotel is expected to have approximately 120 rooms and ample meeting space, UMass Lowell has not confirmed any concrete details about the project.
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk from Pexels
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