UNBC Proposes 4,000-Resident Neighbourhood Near Prince George Campus, Seeks Government Support

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is seeking support from both the City of Prince George and the provincial government to develop a new neighbourhood next to its campus — a project that could eventually house around 4,000 people.

If approved, the development would mark one of the most significant expansions for both the university and the city since UNBC opened in 1994.

A vision for growth

UNBC’s interim president, Bill Owen, says the proposal is designed to support long-term growth and economic diversification in the region.

The plan includes high-density housing along with essential services such as daycare spaces and housing tailored for researchers, health-care workers and seniors.

“We’ve looked at what the city needs and its future growth,” Owen said, emphasizing that the project aims to benefit both the university and the broader community.

Transit-oriented living

A key advantage of the proposed site is its designation as a transit-oriented area — a provincial planning concept that promotes dense housing near reliable public transit.

According to Owen, UNBC may be the only location in Prince George — and possibly northern B.C. — that meets these criteria.

The goal is to create a community where residents can easily access the university, nearby hospitals and the downtown core, helping attract and retain skilled professionals in the region.

Balancing development and nature

Despite the scale of the project, UNBC says environmental preservation will be a priority.

Plans include maintaining wildlife corridors that connect the campus to surrounding forests, which are home to animals such as moose and deer.

“It’s one of the things I personally love about Prince George — there are trees everywhere,” Owen said, highlighting the importance of protecting the natural landscape.

Key hurdle: provincial approval

Before construction can begin, UNBC must overcome a major regulatory challenge.

The land earmarked for development — part of the university’s 47-acre Land Trust — was originally Crown land granted for academic and research purposes.

Under current rules, if the university wants to use it for housing or commercial development, it must pay full market value due to a legal provision known as a reverter clause.

UNBC is now asking the province to waive or modify this requirement to make the project financially viable.

Collaboration with First Nations

The proposed development sits on the unceded territory of the Lheidli T'enneh First Nation, making their involvement essential.

Owen said early discussions have taken place, but emphasized that the First Nation would play a key role in shaping the project moving forward.

“What are some of their needs, what are some of the opportunities we have to support them?” he said.

What happens next

UNBC is presenting the proposal to city council to build municipal support before approaching the provincial government.

If approved, the project could take several years to develop — but it has the potential to reshape housing, infrastructure and economic growth in northern British Columbia.