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The Future U project to renovate and expand the University Student Union (USU) is moving forward, and we're excited to share the latest updates!
This project began in the 2022 - 23 academic year with the Alternative Consultation campaign. We connected with over 17,000 campus stakeholders, whose feedback overwhelmingly supported the renovation, even with a student fee increase. Based on this input, the Student Fee Advisory Committee (SFAC) approved a $255 per semester fee increase beginning in fall 2025 to fund the project. This fee will support the renovation and expansion of the USU, which includes upgrading the existing facilities, adding approximately 50,000 square feet of new space, and enhancing amenities such as expanded food service and seating, additional study and lounge spaces, improved wellness services, upgraded conference and meeting areas, and state-of-the-art technology to better meet student needs.
Since the approval of the project, we've made significant progress:
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Feasibility Study (2023 - 24): Canon Design assessed the scope, viability and feasibility of the renovation and confirmed its potential to meet campus needs.
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Design Validation (2024 - 25): Our design/build team, Penta Gensler, is finalizing the building's internal layout and external footprint to ensure alignment with the feasibility study.
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Building Closure: The USU will close August 2025, with construction beginning in December 2025 and reopening in May 2028. During the closure, services will continue in relocated spaces across campus.
This semester, we're focused on relocating departments, programs and resources currently housed in the USU. We're also finalizing a food services plan to support the campus community during the three-year closure.
Thank you for your continued support as we transform the USU into a dynamic space that meets the needs of future generations.
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