LSU Alexandria and Durand sign 50-year lease to ease housing shortage

ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) — Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) has entered into a 50-year ground lease agreement with Durand Construction, LLC, to develop a privately managed apartment complex aimed at alleviating a long-standing campus housing shortage.

Approved by both the Louisiana Board of Regents and the LSU Board of Supervisors, the agreement will allow construction of a 176-unit complex on the northern edge of campus, near the intersection of U.S. Highway 71 and LA 3170. The project is designed to support LSUA’s rapid growth and ongoing efforts to attract and retain students, faculty, and staff.

“This strategic partnership directly addresses LSUA’s most pressing need—housing,” university officials said in a statement. “On-campus housing has been at 100% capacity for nearly five years, with a waitlist in the triple digits.”

The complex will include 176 two-bedroom units, housing up to 352 residents. Though the facility will be privately operated, leasing will prioritize LSUA-affiliated individuals through favorable terms. At the end of the lease, the property and all improvements will transfer to university ownership.

Construction will follow university-approved designs aligned with LSUA’s master plan. The project is set to occupy land currently part of the Plantation Oaks Golf Course, specifically the 3rd and 7th holes, with access from Garry Tisdale Drive. The last day for public play on the golf course will be Sunday, June 1, 2025.

The site and project details were guided by an economic feasibility study conducted by Brailsford & Dunlavey. University leaders believe the initiative will foster sustainable growth without direct financial costs to LSUA while also boosting the regional economy.

“This development strengthens LSUA’s role as a community hub in central Louisiana,” the university stated. “It also aligns with our broader mission to build a vibrant, student-centered campus experience.”