Boise State University, a public research university in Idaho, US, has broken ground on a new 450-bed residence hall near Albertsons Library.

The project will entail an investment of $58.5m, which is planned to be funded by a combination of institutional reserves and $43m of bond debt.

Designed to meet LEED Silver energy efficiency norms, the proposed facility is expected to address concerns regarding housing shortages for students looking to live on campus.

Designed to "intentionally foster community" among its residents, the building will offer a connection to the greater Boise community and its natural surroundings.

This new hall will comprise three wings, of which two will be six storeys high and the other five storeys.

The first level will be divided to allow pass-throughs. This will also prevent traffic flows on the Greenbelt.

The facility will have all of its student rooms on the second floor and higher for their safety and security, the university has said.

Boise State University president Marlene Tromp said: “We are always seeking to meet the needs of our students, and we know from research that first-year students achieve greater success when they can benefit from the opportunities that living on a vibrant university campus provides.

“This spectacular new building will be perfectly situated for academic success and will give our students incredible access to Boise’s beautiful outdoor spaces. We are so excited to welcome more students home to Boise State.”

Planned to be commissioned by late 2025, the new building will have a total area of approximately 98,000ft².