WMU apartments rates increase

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) - Western Michigan University's Board of Trustees, during its meeting Wednesday, approved rental rate increases for campus apartments and apartment-style residential units.

The increases will go into effect starting with the fall 2013 semester, according to a news release.

For the Western View complex, the trustees' approval means rates will increase 3.5 percent for 2013-14. Aligning with the surrounding community market, per-bedroom rates will range from $418 to $723 monthly. Costs may vary depending on the size and furnishing options chosen. Rates include cable TV, recycling and trash removal, water and access to a new Community Center scheduled for completion next fall.

The approved rates apply to the entire Western View complex, including the original units that opened in fall 2011 and the additional units opening in fall 2013. Students interested in living at Western View next year can apply online at wmich.edu/housing/apartments/westernview.html

Goldsworth Valley and Elmwood apartment rental rates will increase by 2 percent per unit. Rates for 2013-14 will range from $621 per month for a one-bedroom, unfurnished apartment in Goldsworth Valley to $911 per month for a two-bedroom, furnished unit in the Elmwood Apartments.

Stadium Drive apartments rental rates will increase by .5 percent to cover increased operational expenses only. A two-bedroom furnished Stadium Drive apartment will cost $763 per month. Unfurnished rooms are also an available option at a lower monthly rate.

WMU currently operates 20 residence halls, six dining facilities, six cafes, four apartment-style complexes and one residential complex. In fall 2012, 5,567 individuals lived on campus, 94 percent of degree-seeking first-time freshmen chose to live in the residence halls, and the 586 apartment-style and residential units operated at 97 percent occupancy.