Ohlone College Cancels Planned Affordable Student Housing at Newark Campus

Ohlone College has decided to discontinue plans for an affordable student housing development at its Newark Center campus. Officials cited sharp increases in building material costs, recent tariffs, and shifting student enrollment trends as key factors that made the multi-million dollar residential project financially unfeasible.

The residential complex was originally proposed to open by 2028, offering affordable dorm beds and apartment units for students and college staff. College leadership noted that current fiscal conditions and reduced international enrollment meant the district could not proceed without placing an excessive financial burden on institutional resources.

The Newark Center will continue to operate its existing environmental studies, health sciences, and general education courses while district administrators evaluate other methods to help students facing local housing insecurity.