Florida Construction News staff writer
Gilbane, in partnership with Palm Beach Atlantic University, has reached financial close on a $240 million public-private partnership that will bring a 25-story student housing tower to downtown West Palm Beach.
The Palm Beach County Board of Commissioners approved the deal, which will not use taxpayer dollars. Funding comes from bonds issued by the county and backed by project revenues.
The new mixed-use development will rise at Acacia Road and Dixie Highway, offering 275 apartments with 990 student beds. The project also includes a 28,000-square-foot dining hall, 14,000-square-foot fitness and recreation center, an 8.5-level parking garage with 704 spaces, and over 230 bike and e-bike stalls.
Construction is set to begin in summer 2025, with completion planned for August 2027 ahead of the 2027-28 academic year.
Gilbane Development is leading the project as developer, with Gilbane Building serving as design-builder and Cube3 as lead architect. The project team also includes Urban Design Studio, Shutts & Bowen, and Kimley-Horn, who provided expertise in planning, land use, and traffic engineering.
“This project will mean more options for students and less pressure on the local housing market,” said Jeffrey Resetco, senior development director at Gilbane Development. “We’re proud to support PBA’s growing student population while contributing to the vitality of downtown West Palm Beach.”
University President Dr. Debra A. Schwinn said the tower will help bring more students back to campus and support a more unified student experience.
“This transformational project reflects our commitment to whole-person education and community engagement,” Schwinn said. “It strengthens our role as a partner in the flourishing downtown West Palm Beach, now known as Wall Street South.”
The design includes a variety of student-focused amenities such as game rooms, study areas, wellness spaces, and social lounges. Outdoor features like landscaped walkways and gathering areas aim to foster community interaction and environmental mindfulness.
The parking garage will include ADA-compliant elevators, ramps, and smart parking systems to improve traffic flow and accessibility. It will also include green design elements like living walls and public spaces that align with the city’s goal of a walkable, connected downtown.
“This is a project that not only enhances student life, but also adds value to the broader community,” said Jason Sizemore, area leader for Gilbane Building.
