University Celebrates Topping Out of Housing and Dining Project
By Rybeccah Jahraus
Cal State San Marcos celebrated the completion of the structural phase of its University Village Housing and Dining (UVHD) project with a topping-out ceremony on Thursday, March 20.
A topping-out ceremony typically marks the placement of the last or highest steel beam.
Construction on the 2.5-acre site began in January 2024 and is expected to be complete in fall 2026. The 137,000-square-foot UVHD is being built on what was formerly Parking Lot O. It features a three-wing configuration to create gathering spaces and student life areas.
The seven-story residence hall – which includes a 10,000-square-foot, two-story dining facility – will have 555 beds, providing affordable housing for underserved, low-income students.
“We are breaking down barriers to higher education and making it possible for more students to stay focused on their studies and thrive,” CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said at the event. “From pod-style communities that foster belonging to all-gender restrooms, study and social spaces, and secure, modern designs, this is more than just a place to live – it’s a place to grow, connect and succeed.”
Leon Wyden, CSUSM’s vice president for Finance and Administrative Services and chief financial officer, served as the event emcee and welcomed San Marcos councilmembers Danielle LeBlang and Ed Musgrove, who presented a certificate of recognition from the City of San Marcos.
The UVHD project is being funded in part by $91 million received from Gov. Gavin Newsom and the California Legislature.
“Today, as we celebrate reaching the highest point of construction, we pause to recognize the incredible teamwork and dedication that got us here,” Wyden said.
Partners on the project include McCarthy Building Companies and Gensler. Wyden also thanked the trades teams and contractors, including Nevell Group Inc. (framing), Critchfield Mechanical Inc. (mechanical), Bergelectric Corp. (electrical), A.O. Reed & Co. (plumbing), Kimble and Company (fire protection) and Sunset Glazing (glazing systems).
Wyden also credited university partners, including Planning, Design and Construction, Student Affairs, Housing and CSUSM Corporation.
“Today’s topping-out ceremony isn’t just about celebrating a structure that has reached its highest point,” Neufeldt said. “It’s about the heights we are helping our students reach because of this project.”
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