South Expands On-Campus Housing with $40 Million Apartment Acquisition
Posted on May 19, 2026
The University of South Alabama has expanded its on-campus housing portfolio with the purchase of the Central House on Stadium apartment complex at 175 Stadium Drive. The $40-million acquisition comes as undergraduate enrollment continues to grow and demand for student housing reaches record levels ahead of the fall 2026 semester.
The 384-unit complex, which will be renamed Southpaw Village, will be managed by USA Housing. This purchase increases the total number of student housing beds to nearly 4,000.
“We are experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand from both incoming freshmen and returning students eager to live on campus,” said USA President Jo Bonner. “This strategic investment enables us to meet that need while elevating the overall student experience at the University of South Alabama.”
Central House tenants were notified of the ownership change by the property management company, Cardinal Group. The University is working with tenants on future housing plans. When the fall semester opens in August, only enrolled students will be allowed to occupy the apartment complex.
“One of the highlights of living on South’s campus is the ease of access to everything we offer to students,” said Andi M. Kent, Ph.D, executive vice president and provost. “The University provides a variety of ways to stay active and engaged, including a modern recreation center, hiking trails and more than 270 student organizations.”
USA Housing operates residence halls and campus apartments across eight residential communities. University officials say on-campus living remains a popular choice for students due to its convenience, opportunities for engagement and positive impact on academic success.
