Hawaii News Now - KGMB and KHNL HomeNew dormitory opens at UH Manoa

New dormitory opens at UH Manoa

By Kristine Uyeno - bio | email

MANOA (KHNL) - The finishing touches are being placed on the newest residence hall at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Officials gathered for a dedication ceremony for the environmentally-friendly, Frear Hall.

It stands 12 stories high and will house 810 students. It's also the first dormitory to be built on campus in 30 years.

"This is a critical new addition to our campus, students, for our learning environment, it really is a tremendous advance," said UH Chancellor Virginia Hinshaw.

It's designed to be eligible for LEED silver certification, a rating system that provides standards for environmentally sustainable construction. The estimated price tag is $71 million.

"We really anticipate a payback to the university at the end of the project," said Xavier Garcia, project manager.

Frear Hall has fluorescent lighting, which uses less energy. Low-flow plumbing fixtures and recycled carpeting. Even the paint has fewer fumes and less chemicals than something you'd buy at the store.

"Well, we're all concerned about energy, water usage, all those types of things and we need to set an example, and we have a large population here so we want to make sure we do it in a sustainable manner," said Hinshaw.

UH officials say it's important to take care of the environment, for current and future students.