Renovations have been made in the dining hall to create an enjoyable atmosphere and safe environment for students and staff.
Costing about $1.3 million, the dining hall has expanded the internal space, revamped the interior, and upgraded the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. The hall has been repainted, and the new ceiling, floors, and lighting have increased the brightness in the hall and lowered energy cost. The roof was replaced to reduce leaking when it rains. The HVAC upgrade provides air conditioning in the kitchen and the east dining room. The fire alarm system was also upgraded for increased safety for students, staff, and guests.
The biggest change is the added space at the entry and exit. In the past, a line of students would form past the entrance doors, forcing some students to stand outside in the cold weather before they could enter. A walkway was built to create more room for students to enter the dining hall. Exiting the walkway, students are greeted by the cashiers in a new office space. Before the renovation, the cashier’s station was in front of the entrance. When a student entered, cold winter air would rush in, causing discomfort for the cashiers. Now, the walkway blocks cold air from entering.
“This obviously will have a tremendous positive impact to our customers and employees in those areas. Additionally, controlling the temperature in the kitchen makes for a better and safer food service preparation environment and a much healthier work space for our staff,” said Jack Shaw, the assistant vice president for Auxiliary Enterprises.