This week, Queen’s University received an occupancy permit for the original wing of the John Deutsch University Centre (JDUC) from the City of Kingston, and final work and preparations are underway for incoming tenants including student governments, clubs and retail to move into their newly-renovated spaces. 

Construction delays, due to trades shortages and complex site conditions in the original wing, have pushed project completion into 2025, though the university expects the new wing to open by the end of the current semester. Renovations to the JDUC included the opening of 90 residence rooms on Aug. 23, 2024. 

“These delays are extremely disappointing, and we understand the frustration of the AMS and SGPS,” says Donna Janiec, VP Finance and Administration at Queen’s University. “We are providing regular updates to our student leaders, and are working with the general contractor to reach full completion of the JDUC as soon as possible. I want to thank our student leadership, in particular, for their continued partnership and understanding as this project reaches the final stages of completion.”

The JDUC serves as a hub for student life at Queen’s, housing offices for the Alma Mater Society, the Society of Graduate and Professional Students, the Office of the Rector, the Student Experience Office (SEO), as well as numerous student clubs, new student wellbeing space, a pub, and a media centre.