FAMU spends $3.5 million to upgrade Palmetto South and Phase III residence halls

Palmetto South and Palmetto Phase III

FAMU spent $3.5 million to modernize Palmetto South and Palmetto Phase III housing complexes in time for the start of the 2023 school year.  Palmetto South first opened in 1993, while phase III opened in 1992.

The renovations include new hardwood-like floors, new kitchens and bathrooms in each unit, new counter tops, new furniture, modern upgraded showers, new windows, new HVAC systems, and a refresh of the public spaces.

“We think students will be pleasantly surprised with the new amenities. We considered their recommendations,” said Vice President for Student Affairs William E. Hudson, Jr.  “We hope students will value and appreciate the effort and the cost associated with the renovations,” he said. 

“We took the opportunity to improve our facilities and add amenities comparable to off-campus housing,” said Housing Director Jennifer Wilder. “Our students will appreciate the new look.”

Last year, FAMU demolished Palmetto North residence hall and students in Palmetto South and Phase III had to be relocated at the start of the school year as students complained pest infestation in two residence complexes.

FAMU's housing system is flushed with cash after federal officials forgave the university's $116 million federal loan to construct the FAMU towers, refinance the Polkinghorne Village and the university's housing debt in 2020.