Columbia will not renew Arc lease

By South Loop TV News Team

The college will not renew its lease for The Arc when it expires in May 2026, citing financial considerations, enrollment trends and housing demand, administrators said.

The college said the decision followed “standard institutional due diligence” to determine whether renewing the lease aligned with current student demand and long-term housing needs. The administration pointed to reduced enrollment and vacant beds as contributing factors.

Students living in The Arc said the building’s apartment-style amenities including in-unit laundry, dishwashers, rooftop access and spacious layouts, made it feel more like independent housing than a traditional dorm.

Some residents said they want clearer answers about how those funds will be used, questioning whether they will go toward scholarships, financial aid or other student support. With move-out deadlines approaching, residents are now searching for new housing as the college prepares to phase out The Arc from its residential options.

More information about 2026-2027 on-campus housing applications can be found on Columbia’s website.

Reporter: Jaylen Barlow

Camera: Hapi Lightfoot

Web Writer: Vivian Richey