Gilbane and Purdue University Fort Wayne (PFW) celebrated the ribbon cutting of Trace, a student housing complex on PFW’s North Campus made possible through a public-private partnership (P3). Trace represents a significant milestone as PFW continues its transition from a commuter campus to offering a more traditional residential community, with the development addressing the university’s growing need for more student housing, which has been at full capacity for seven consecutive fall semesters.
Located at 5104 Meeks Drive near Ginsberg Hall, the four-story, 213,000-square-foot apartment complex encompasses 601 beds across 176 units spanning studio to four-bedroom accommodations. Nearly half of the beds are reserved for university-contracted students while the remaining will be available for other students – including those enrolled at other colleges and universities – who will lease with the complex directly.
“This ribbon-cutting represents more than just bringing new beds online. It’s a direct response to the evolving needs of the next generation of Mastodons and provides them with a modern space that enhances their campus living experience,” said Geoff Eisenacher, Executive Development Director, Gilbane Development. “Trace is a testament to what can be achieved when a university and private developer align on a shared goal, and we’re proud to partner with Purdue to effectively and efficiently deliver new residences that further unlock its campus’ potential.”
“The Trace represents much more than a new residence hall. It is an investment in our students, our university and the future of Northeast Indiana,” said Ron Elsenbaumer, Chancellor of Purdue University Fort Wayne. “As a trusted hub for knowledge, innovation and the talent that fuels Northeast Indiana’s workforce, Purdue Fort Wayne is committed to attracting and preparing the talent our communities and employers need. The Trace strengthens that mission by creating more opportunities for students to live, learn and build their futures here.”
Joining Daniel Jellicourse, Development Director at Gilbane, and Elsenbaumer during Monday’s ribbon cutting ceremony were Dana Berkes of the PFW Foundation, Purdue University President Mung Chiang, and PFW Vice Chancellor for enrollment management and the student experience Krissy Surface.
“Students will experience the impact of Trace every day, from where they live and study to where they connect and build community,”said Josh Nichols, Project Executive, Gilbane Building. “Bringing that experience to life required close coordination across the entire project team, with safety and quality guiding the work. We’re proud to have worked alongside Purdue Fort Wayne and our trade partners to create a welcoming residential community where students can thrive.”
Crafted to elevate the student living experience through thoughtful design and modern conveniences, the community offers a robust amenity roster including a convenience store, fitness center, gaming room, quiet study space, entrance and floor lounges, reception area, leasing office, and multi-purpose spaces.
Residents also benefit from a collection of outdoor amenities such as a hammock farm, sand volleyball court, basketball court, grilling areas, fire pits, and plenty of green space. Trace’s amenity program is designed to promote health and wellness for students to thrive in all aspects of campus life.
In addition to enhancing the student living experience, Trace emphasizes sustainability, incorporating energy-efficient appliances, lighting, water conservation measures, native landscaping, stormwater treatment, and construction waste management strategies.
The complex is tailored to have minimal impact on the neighborhood, offering a dedicated public drop-off area for campus shuttles and rideshares, as well as strategic parking placement with over 450 spaces to complement multiple pedestrian connections.
The project team includes Gilbane as developer and construction manager, AVB as design-builder, and Progressive AE as architect. The complex will be owned by Strategic Facility Partners and operated by Inwood Management.
