Groundbreaking marks start of Memorial Union renovation
As they watched the ceremonial shovels slicing into the soil outside the east entrance of the building, most people watching the Memorial Union renovation groundbreaking had their minds on the future.
Specifically, about two years from now.
That's when the project to renovate and expand what's known as the living room of Emporia State University will be complete.
Representatives from local, state and federal government and the Kansas Board of Regents joined ESU president Dr. Michael R. Lane on the stage at the Friday, April 16 groundbreaking.
"We're looking forward to this will provide our students," Lane said to the audience. "This will be the place where new generations of students will create the same kinds of memories that many of you have created here."
Planning for the renovation has been underway since 2007, leading up to a successful referendum in 2009 that saw students voting to increase fees to finance 90 percent of the project’s $18.5 million cost. The balance is being covered by private donors.
The first phase of construction is getting underway this spring. The renovation should be finished by the start of the fall 2012 semester.
