The most popular building on campus is set to get a bit bigger. According to an email from Lisa Powers, director of the Department of Public Information, a 35,000 square foot expansion is planned as part of the project to connect the HUB and the White Building. The $29 million expansion will include an expansion to the bookstore, enclosing of the area outside of Jogies sandwich shop, and will fill the space surrounding the exterior bookstore entrance near the parking deck.

The request for proposal [pdf] put out by OPP lists several neat features to be added to the HUB, including relocating the post office from McAllister building, moving the radio studio from behind the fish tanks, a smoothie bar in the White Building and a climbing wall. According to Powers, the project is “designed to make the space more functional and accessible for more students. It promises to offer an inviting and active student union with more year-round seating created, more multi-purpose rooms, game rooms, and increased food service opportunities.”

The plans will be presented to the Board of Trustees at the meeting in March, along with a recommended architect. Funding for the project will come from the student facilities fee, Barnes and Noble, and food services.