Parkview Two, MAST @ FIU building to be constructed

Two new buildings are coming to FIU campuses.

At Modesto A. Maidique Campus, construction is slated to begin next month on Parkview Two, a 13-story residence hall that will serve approximately 700 upperclassmen students. It is expected to be completed by fall of 2022.

The distinguishing features of the building: large lounges surrounded by glass that overlook Miami.

“The architects were told to design something that would be the centerpiece of campus. This building is going to tower above other buildings on campus, so we wanted it to be sleek. We wanted it to be modern. We wanted it to be Worlds Ahead,” said Andrew Naylor, senior director for Housing & Residential Life.

According to Naylor, additional housing has been a need at MMC for several years. The funds to construct Parkview 2 will come from revenue bonds, which are bonds that are sold based on the projected income of the building. 

Meanwhile, at Biscayne Bay Campus, a new building is being constructed for the Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST) @ FIU. Founded in 2013, this public magnet program focuses on marine and environmental research while blending together elements of high school and university life. It ranks as one of the top high schools in Miami-Dade County.

Before the coronavirus pandemic, students in MAST @ FIU learned in classrooms and portables at BBC. Construction on the permanent facility began earlier this year. It is estimated to be completed by December. Check out a live feed from the construction site here.

Among the highlights of the planned building are a small wetland habitat in the school’s backyard and a boathouse. The completed facility is expected to serve approximately 500 to 600 students.

“Providing an environment where students can do research on mangrove populations, look at coastal wetlands as habitats and look at the diversity of plant and animal species that are in their backyards adds tremendous value to the experiences of high school students,” said principal Matthew Welker, a four-time FIU graduate.