While tuition is rising steadily, an increase in on-campus
housing rates for the 2004-2005 academic year will rise only
slightly, at an approximate rate of 2 percent for all dorm and
apartment living. Board will rise about 4 percent, per the minimum
required in a contract between the Saint Louis University and
Chartwells.

“This is probably one of the lowest increases we’ve had in years
in housing. We really fought hard to keep that cost managed this
year,” said Kathy Humphrey, vice president for Student Development.
The loss of the 12 buildings in the Grand Forest Apartment complex
was factored in to the budget, Humphrey said.

A double room in Griesedieck Hall will cost $4,320 for the year,
up $80 from last year’s rate. A single in DeMattias Hall will cost
$5,580, up $110. A four-bedroom apartment in the Village
Apartments, with a balcony, will cost $6,870 for the year, up
$130.

Last year, housing prices were hiked significantly, ranging from
3.5 percent in Walsh Hall to eight percent in Marguerite Hall.

Humphrey said that the prices were kept low because there are no
massive renovations planned for the coming year.

Small projects that are still in the planning process include
replacing flooring in the Village and continuing to keep up all
other housing with paint and repairs as they are needed.

Humphrey hopes to complete renovations in Walsh and Clemens
halls as soon as the money needed for the project, between $1 and
$2 million, becomes available. There are also plans to improve the
east end of campus.

“We know we need to do some work in Grand Forest,” Humphrey
said.

Board rates will increase about 4 percent, for example, 10 meals
per week and 275 flex points will cost $3,640 a year, up $140 from
last year.

Humphrey said that board rates will continue to increase at the
4 percent rate, per the contract with Chartwells, but additional
increases are also possible in coming years as well.