8C - THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
MONDAY,AUG.20,2001
Building A More
What's Happening?
The Kansas Union is changing again! Since its dedication in 1926, the Kansas Union has undergone no less than 5 major renovations and numerous upgrades. The Phase III Renovation, beginning in 2001, will add many new features and amenities. Input was sought from students, faculty and staff in planning for this final phase of a three-phase plan to update the 75 year old building.
Construction will last a little over a year, as new features will be phased in as they are completed. What does that mean to you? Fewer inconveniences and more services when you need them. Some improvements to the building, such as the new Herb Harris Student Computing Lab and the Hawk Shop convenience store, have already been added Customers can begin taking advantage of these new services right away.
The west side of the Kansas Union around 1940.
New Food Court
On Level 3, the food court has already received its facelift. This fall, The Market will open as a bright and lively hot-spot of an eatery, with several new offerings including Asian cuisine, sub sandwiches and even a Burger King Pizza Hut will also relocate from the Hawk's Nest. Finally, Jitter Mug's Coffee Shop will stay open later to offer Einstein Bros. bagels,
Starbucks Coffee and Smoothies for those late-night cravings!
The Jaybowl is Saved
The Jaybowl, which will be closed for the fall, will reopen better than ever. New lanes and improved decor will make this modern hangout a slacker's paradise. The front of the Jaybowl will be transformed into a late night lounge, complete with a stage for live performances. It will take over the tradition of the Hawk's Nest name and turn Level 1 into the best late-night destination for a study break.
Before you know it, the grand, new stair tower will be added, and you will be able to walk over from the garage on the connected catwalk to level 2. Welcome to the new and improved
Garage Connection
KU Bookstore and Mt. Oread Bookshop! More room, giant windows and oversized furniture greet the weary shopper. And more surprises await you in the coming months as we continue to build a more perfect Kansas Union!
What About Burge?
The Burge Union is also changing. New furniture has been added to the much improved decor upstairs. KU Recreation Services will operate a new fitness center upstairs where the Union Tech Center was formerly located (the UTC has moved to the Kansas Union). The Hawk Shop convenience store was added over the summer to the front of the KU Bookstore, and the Crimson Cafe continues to expand its menu. It's an exciting time to visit the Burge Union. Be sure to say Hello to Mr. Burge when you see him.
The Kansas Union Phase III Renovation
The completed Kansas Union looking east from the Spencer Museum of Art. Large windows will provide grand views of the University of Kansas campus from all levels. The new, curved stair tower is reminiscent of two other campus structures: The Lied Center and the new press box at Memorial Stadium. The project is scheduled to be completed in fall of 2002.