Construction is underway for the Hub at Tucson apartments as the property management company adds more on-campus housing for students.
The 14-story apartment complex located at the corner of Tyndall Avenue and First Street currently houses 594 residents. Carrie Henderson, the leasing and marketing manager for the Hub, said the luxe living community attracts students because of its close proximity to the UA campus.
“We offer a lot of amenities and floor plans, and we have something for everyone,” she said. The Hub’s expansion has been a topic of discussion circulating throughout campus for some time. Construction of Hub at Tucson II, or the “Mini Hub,” began in May 2015. The new installment only has six floors, unlike its original counterpart. Though slightly smaller, Hub 2 grants more options for student living with 104 new apartments, housing 311 new residents.
This helps add more availability for students looking for housing that are without immediate transportation. Rent rates are similar between the two complexes.
“The rent [prices] are pretty similar, it just depends on what floor plan [students] like the best,” Henderson said. Plus, both Hubs share the same amenities, including a fitness center, tanning rooms, fully furnished units, business centers, study rooms, 24-hour professional management, spas and ,of course, rooftop pools. Hub 2 features new townhouse and duplex floor plans, distinguishing it from the original.
These new floor plans are both two-story units and have much “larger [square footage] than other apartments you’ll find,” Henderson said. “The townhomes [are] like having your own little condo with a lot of space.”
The new building will mimic the modern style and qualities associated with the original Hub, but with its own unique twist.
“Hub 2 has a different design — like a modern twist on Route 66,” Henderson said. The new expansion will not have any retail or restaurants connected to the building because of the limited space that will be needed for each new unit. However, the lack of space will not change the luxurious style and feel the Hub provides for its residents.
Journalism senior Madison Brodsky said she likes the Hub’s various amenities and appreciates the building’s “close proximity to class.”
Journalism junior Brandon James said the Hub’s community-feel appeals to him.
“My apartment is nice,” he said. “I have a lot of space, and I like the community feel—there is always something to do.”
The noise of construction is still something many students are getting accustomed to, as workers are moving at a fast rate to get the project done. The Hub 2 is predicted to be finished by Fall 2016.
Regardless, students are still eager about the new building.
“I think it’s gonna be great,” said journalism sophomore Danielle Simon. “It’s good for the focus of the Hub, and it’s gonna add more competition for Sol and the Levels.”
Hub 2 is just north of the Hub in an area that contains most new student housing.
Many students debate whether the hefty price of living at the Hub is worth it. Pre-business sophomore Mina Sezan said she thinks it is.
“It’s just a nice place to live,” she said.
The Hub 2 leasing office is located on Speedway Boulevard and Campbell Avenue, right next to 1702 Pizza and Beer. Henderson said the new complex welcomes all students interested in becoming a part of the new expansion. Regardless of which Hub residents choose, Henderson said both buildings suit student lifestyles.
“I think both buildings provide a perfect balance for students between social life and school,” Henderson said. “All of the shared amenity space allows students to meet their neighbors, make new friends, and get the most of their college experience.”
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