Original Union to Be Closed for Renovations

Remodeling costs for the main building of the Union and the additions completed this August total more than $14 million. Last week, after a rebid of the renovations, the cost increased by $1 million. Construction also was handed to a different company than the one in charge of building the new Union.

Construction, which should start any time between late December and January, should be completed 10 months after the contractors begin, said Union Director Don Luse. During renovations, students will not have access to any of the three floors of the Union. The Union annex will be the only part of the original structure to remain open.

The renovation will add several new features to the Union.

The building's interior hasn't changed since it was built in 1968, when the student population was only about 10,000, and officials say it's long overdue for remodeling.

"Our (student population) numbers are really high," Luse said. "(The renovations) will allow for a much better place for students to eat and more lounge space to study ... and meet."

The largest visible change will occur when the stairwell in the center of the Union, which violates fire codes, is moved to the sides of the building, Luse said.

The space the stairs inhabit will be paved over and replaced by a large student lounge extending from the Union desk all the way to the front doors, he said.

A new food service station, Alpine Bagels, will replace Union Station. It will be run by Carolina Dining Services, like its predecessor. It will serve fresh bagels baked daily on the premises, soups and salads. The station will open early and serve students until 1 a.m. on weeknights.

"This is going to be a lot more prepared foods ... (and) healthier choices," said Ira Simon, director of CDS. "We feel this is providing a better mix of food in this environment."

Alpine Bagels will be located in the same place as Union Station and will remain the same size as its predecessor.

The old Carolina Union Activities Board office on the second floor will be opened up, expanding the lounge space so students get a view of the Pit below, Luse said.

But before students can take advantage of the new, more accommodating building, there will be a few inconveniences, officials said. Union Station and the Great Hall will be closed until renovations are completed next school year.

The auditorium will remain open, hosting many of the events that normally would have been held in the Great Hall.

Luse said that despite delays that postponed the completion date of the new Union by 14 months, he expects renovations to the original Union to be completed on schedule.

"It's a company that has done considerable work around the area, in the Triangle, on campus," Luse said. "We feel good about their abilities; they have a great track record."

The University Editor can be reached at udesk@unc.edu.