New Village hall takes shape, name revealed

In May 2023, work began on a new Village residence hall to replace Ikenberry Hall, which was constructed in 1972. The Office of Residence Life says the hall construction is progressing and has also unveiled the new hall's name: Potomac Hall.  

Here are some updates and what students can expect as the new hall takes shape: 

• The university chose the new name based on feedback from numerous stakeholders, including students and staff. 
• Recent milestones include window and elevator installations. Work is scheduled to begin soon on the interior, to include drywall, paint, flooring, and furnishings, which is slated to begin installation in June. 
• The new hall is being designed to be environmentally friendly and earn the LEED certification.  
• Fun fact: The new hall will weigh as much as the Eiffel Tower, and the building’s insulation would fill a ¼ of the White House. 

“Residence Life is excited about the new hall’s progress, and we know the residents are going to love the new space,” said Kathleen Campbell, JMU’s Residence Life director. “We appreciate our partnership with JMU’s Facilities Management and building contractor SB Ballard Construction Company for working to build a great place for our students to learn and grow,” added Campbell. 

Potomac Hall is scheduled to open for use in fall 2025.  

For project updates, please visit this Residence Life resource.