The end may be in sight as construction on the Student Union zeroes in on a completion date in the near future.
The long-awaited and highly anticipated Tiger Lair food court is scheduled to open in late February, according to Union Director Shirley Plakidas.
“We want students to come back and enjoy [Tiger Lair],” Plakidas said.
While Tiger Lair is slated to re-open in four to six weeks, construction on all individual food vendors finish mid-April.
The newly renovated Tiger Lair will feature new restaurants and old favorites. Panda Express, Chick-fil-A, Jamba Juice, Salsarita’s, Quiznos, Bayou Bistreaux, Community Coffee, a pizza outlet and On-the-Go, a premade food outlet for those short on time, will all have a spot in the new Tiger Lair. Plakidas said officials are working to decide between hosting a Pizza Hut or a Papa John’s.
“I’m most excited about Chick-fil-A and CC’s,” said Hannah Connelly, math junior.
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Tiger Lair’s dining space will increase by 250 square feet, Plakidas said.
Additionally, the dining units in Tiger Lair will all operate independently, meaning they may open and close at different times. Normal hours for the Tiger Lair will be 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. with some exceptions, including CC’s staying open later, according to Plakidas.
The renovation will finish under its $83 million budget, Plakidas said. Surplus money will go toward paying off bonds early.
The new Leisure Arts Studio is slated to open and start classes shortly. The studio will be located between the Tiger Card Office and McDonald’s.
The Union Theater will also see completion of its latest endeavor in late February, installing high-tech, electro-acoustic equipment and capabilities, Plakidas said.
Renovation on the main lobby area in the Union is near completion, awaiting only the arrival of two large rugs. The space has received a face-lift with new furniture picked by interior designers Mary Miles and Rae Belleu in coordination with Union staff.
“It will be very nice to have people back in the building uninterrupted,” Plakidas said.
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Contact Josh Naquin at [email protected]