UNK looking to acquire lots for future development plans

KEARNEY, Neb. -- The University of Nebraska at Kearney is looking to some of its neighbors to alleviate a parking problem.

At the upcoming University of Nebraska Board of Regents meeting, the board is discussing the proposal for UNK to acquire five lots directly to the east of campus. The property in question runs consecutively along the north side of the 800 block on West 27th St.

The acquisition would be part of a 'Facilities Development Plan' to add parking at a later date for the fraternity and sorority housed students at the newly built Armstrong Hall.

All five of the homes are owned by the St. Teresa of Calcutta Newman Center, Inc., a Nebraska non-profit corporation. Residents in those homes were considered "missionary disciples" and expected to abide by Catholic moral conduct, according to the Newman Center's resident agreement and code of conduct.

Each side has agreed to let UNK lease the residences for up to five years to the Newman Center, likely allowing students to remain there for the upcoming spring semester. The lease agreement can come to an end sooner if they choose to do so.

In lieu of a direct payment for the properties, the two parties are exchanging land. The Newman Center will obtain the parcel where University Residence North used to stand before being torn down over the summer and early fall months of this year.

UNK will sign a 50-year lease with the Newman Center to allow access for continued parking in those lots with 130 available spaces. At this time, the school says it does not have plans to develop the land.

President Dr. Jeff Gold has recommended approval. The board will discuss it Dec. 6 at 9 a.m. inside Varner Hall on the UNL campus.