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The new plan was based on input of various groups during a year-long process. The board also authorized a funding allocation for completion of detailed architectural plans, feasibility review and permitting processes for several projects, including a new seven-story residence hall at the recently purchased Mirage Diner site. with commercial space on the ground floor.
The plan also calls for a new School of Business building, expansion and renovation of the science building, creation of a performing arts venue, and a reconfigured arena complex in the existing Hynes Athletics Center.
“This plan supports our strategic efforts to build on student and academic distinction, support our faculty’s teaching and scholarly work, improve the campus experience and infrastructure, and elevate Iona’s stature and prominence nationally and internationally,” President Joseph E. Nyre said
The College will move forward with developing architectural plans and feasibility reviews for each of the five projects over the next six to 12 months. The residence hall/commercial-use structure will be funded through financing, while the other projects will be donor supported.
In addition to these five major projects, other campus and collaborative improvements will be made, such as classroom modernization, new social spaces for students, more green space, signage/wayfinding changes, traffic calming and other enhancements to the Iona campus experience.
“We look forward to working with Iona College in the implementation of their master plan,” said New Rochelle City Manager Charles B. Strome III. “The proposed development of College facilities on North Avenue will enhance existing commercial uses, attract new businesses and encourage revitalization along the entire North Avenue corridor.”
The need and options for a new Iona residence hall have been discussed publicly for several years. When the owners of the Mirage Diner approached the College about purchasing the property, it created a perfect prospective location as it sits directly across from the main campus entrance on North Avenue.
The new residence hall will create an estimated 250-350 beds. The street-level commercial space will continue to provide property-tax income to the city while adding to Iona amenities and North Avenue revitalization.
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