In Spring 2023, the University of Rhode Island engaged Scion Advisory Services to develop a Housing and Residence Life Master Plan (HRL MP) to modernize its student housing portfolio. The plan prioritized decommissioning aging facilities with significant deferred maintenance, constructing new housing to eliminate triples, and renovating remaining buildings.
Grounded in extensive qualitative and quantitative analysis, Scion’s recommendations were shaped by surveys, enrollment and occupancy trends, financial modeling, and a detailed facilities assessment. The plan outlined the phased delivery of 2,246 new beds within 15 years, reducing deferred maintenance backlogs, controlling operating costs, and aligning with student demand and preferences.
Following the HRL MP, URI selected Scion as its public-private partnership (P3) advisor to lead the full procurement process, including financial structuring, developer engagement, and contract negotiations for over 1,100 new on-campus beds. Scion conducted a market demand assessment, developed a rigorous financial model, and structured the RFQ/P process to attract private development partners. The University successfully awarded the project in early 2024, advancing a transformative P3 housing initiative that will enhance the student experience while leveraging private investment to achieve long-term sustainability.