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MEMPHIS, Tenn.--([ BUSINESS WIRE ])--EdR (NYSE:EDR), one of the nationas largest developers, owners and managers of collegiate housing, today announced that the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees has unanimously approved a 50-year ground lease with the company, allowing it to proceed with the first phase of the universityas on-campus housing revitalization.

"The University of Kentucky has taken a historic step and now leads the way in innovative campus revitalization"

In Phase I, EdR will develop, construct and own a 601-bed, $25.8 million freshman honors housing community at Haggin Field. The living-learning community will include classroom and meeting space, and will be available for occupancy by fall 2013.

The architectural conceptual design is complete and construction contracts are in final negotiations for Phase I. The company is anticipating a spring 2012 groundbreaking.

Simultaneously, EdR and UK are having formal discussions regarding Phase II, which is anticipated to include an expansion to 9,000 residence hall beds and EdRas management of UKas entire housing portfolio of 6,000 beds in the fall of 2013.

aThe University of Kentucky has taken a historic step and now leads the way in innovative campus revitalization,a said Randy Churchey, EdR president and chief executive officer. aEdR is honored to be entrusted with a development and mission of this magnitude.a

In Phase II, EdR will systematically demolish most of the current on-campus dormitories, replacing them with modern and attractive living communities that will provide comfortable accommodations for UK students and programs along with up-to-date services and technology.

This project will be financed through EdRas On-Campus Equity Plan a" The ONE Plan^SMa" which uses the companyas equity and financial stability to fund projects on university land. This gives the university access to a single trusted partner, and helps create substantial long-term financial benefits for EdR and UK.

EdR has selected Sherman Carter Barnhart of Lexington, Kentucky, as the architect of record for Phase I.

About EdR

EdR (NYSE:EDR) is one of America's largest owners, developers and managers of collegiate housing. EdR is a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust that owns or manages 60 communities in 23 states with more than 34,200 beds within more than 11,100 units. For more information please visit the company's web site at [ www.EdRtrust.com ].

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