The previous set of stairs was a main entrance and exit area to the heart of campus before being demolished in summer 2000 as part of the Student Union renovation and expansion project.
But with brass-colored handrails and brick trimming, the newly completed stairs have improved the appearance of the area, said Union Director Don Luse. "We think it will make a much more pleasant entrance into the Pit area," he said.
Luse also said the stairs will make navigating the campus more convenient, as closing the stairs diverted the thousands of students who previously used the pathway every day.
Freshman Desire