Construction is underway at John Carroll University’s transformative Gateway North project, marking a major milestone in the University’s $100 million Inspired Futures investment plan.
The project, part of a broader effort to expand housing options for upperclass students, will also now include 20 newly acquired houses and duplexes surrounding campus, which were purchased by the university in November from Plutus Living, Inc.
The vast majority of these properties are already rented by John Carroll students. Together, these new spaces support JCU’s four-year residential model and commitment to enhancing student life both on and off campus. Adding modern, independent housing through Gateway North strengthens John Carroll’s national reputation by offering the kind of residential experience students expect at top-tier universities. These updated living options provide students with the independence they want while keeping them close to faculty, mentors, and campus resources that support their success.
“I would like to thank John Carroll University and everyone I interacted with to make this deal happen,” said Nick Parianos, President of Plutus Living, Inc. “John Carroll University has an impressive vision, and it is humbling to know the portfolio will help support the University’s future growth. The acquisition is very strategic and exciting for the University’s on-campus housing plans. For me, it allows more of my focus and resources to shift towards opportunities with my development company, Plutus Development.”
Juniors and seniors who are interested in house or duplex-style living next fall will find these new options available in John Carroll’s Housing Selection Process that will begin in January 2026. The Gateway North project, on the other hand, is set to be completed in winter 2026, and Gateway North apartments will be ready for students to move in by spring 2027.
“We’re so excited to offer these expanded housing options to our students,” said Dr. Lisa Brown Cornelius, Assistant Vice President of Student Experience & Campus Belonging and Dean of Students at John Carroll. “Providing diverse living options demonstrates John Carroll’s commitment to creating a residential experience focused on a strong community that supports students’ learning and growth.”
Located at Fairmount Circle, Gateway North will introduce modern apartment-style housing for upperclass students along with vibrant retail and dining spaces designed to strengthen the connection between John Carroll University and the University Heights community.
New renderings, produced by DiGeronimo Companies, the developer managing the construction of Gateway North, feature outdoor gathering spaces and shared lounges designed for comfort, independence, and community.
Standing five stories tall, the Gateway North development will feature retail on the first floor, including a specialty grocer, with student living accommodations located above. The project includes:
- 157,000 square feet of gross building area.
- 351 beds in 96 residential units, offering two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments for junior and senior JCU students.
- 27,940 square feet of retail space, envisioned as a hub for JCU students and the greater University Heights community.
Interest in the space from potential retail and restaurant partners has been growing, and the university will announce confirmed tenants as details are finalized.
“Gateway North is a great opportunity for students to have a sense of independent living. With apartments and a grocery store, there arise further pathways for us to thrive beyond the classroom,” said Cole Harvey ’28, a current sophomore at JCU. “Students crave places where they can exercise their independence and be comfortable. With new spaces like these apartments, I believe that the sense of community at JCU will thrive. I'm thrilled to check the place out when all is said and done, and I hope to live there my senior year!”
John Carroll’s recent developments in student housing build on a series of major campus improvements, including the new 125,000-square-foot Athletic, Wellness & Event (AWE) Center and renovations to Grasselli Library and Breen Learning Commons.
