PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY — On the heels of the announcement that Amazon will be locating its new HQ2 in Arlington, George Mason University announced that their Science and Technology Campus will double in size over the next five years.
“The university has grown considerably in recent years, adding approximately 1000 additional students year over year. Today, our student body includes over 37,000 individuals. Enrollment is projected to grow to 43,000 students by 2024. Student enrollment in STEM programs is growing faster than most. Our SciTech campus facilities are essential to meet the needs of this growing student body,” Dr. Deborah Crawford, George Mason’s vice president for research said in an email.
The 20-year-old campus just outside Manassas will be expanded to include more student housing and will offer 4-year degrees for the first time, making it a full-service campus.
“We are currently deeply engaged in a planning activity that will define the degree programs to be offered on SciTech campus. We expect most, but not all, will be STEM programs, whose needs include access to specialized instructional and research labs,” Crawford said.
The campus will have a town center area with businesses to serve the public and students of the new campus.
“We are excited about the possibilities created by the Miller & Smith Innovation Town Center development that will provide housing options for Mason faculty, staff and students, as well as other amenities that will enrich campus life,” Crawford said.
“We are studying the creation of additional instructional facilities, including through the new Bull Run addition slated to begin construction in the next 12 to 24 months, as well as research labs, student study and collaboration spaces, and student dining options. Offices and support spaces for faculty and staff are also likely to be added,” Crawford added.
There is no official word yet on what kind of businesses may be a part of the town center, though.
The developers of the popular Loudoun One center in neighboring Loudoun County are onboard with the project.
“We are working closely with Miller & Smith to answer this. The Miller & Smith One Loudoun development provides insights into what we believe are very promising possibilities,” Crawford said.
Also being expanded is the Hylton Performing Arts Center, where a new 10-room addition is being added to the center. The $8 million new space will be used for classrooms and rehearsals.
