The HUB expansion project that opened in 2015 brought Penn State students some exciting new additions. The updated HUB included more meeting rooms and dining space, the THON store, The LION 90.7 FM’s new studio, and the HUB green roof terrace.

The green roof terrace — the 2014 senior class gift— has been closed since the HUB expansion opened last semester. However, Senior Director of Union and Student Activities Mary Edgington says that students won’t have to wait much longer to utilize the new area.

“The green roof will open sometime in the spring of 2016,” Edgington said. “We are still awaiting some components that need to be added to it before opening, but we are very excited that we are getting closer to completion and the spring semester will be a nice time to have a mini grand opening of the green roof.”

It makes sense that the green roof is closed thus far, mostly because maintaining the roof will be more difficult in the fall and winter months. At this point, waiting for spring is the main reason for the closure, but some appealing improvements are also keeping the terrace’s doors closed for now.

“We will be adding some additional plants, a weather station, and educational components that explain all this roof has to offer in the sustainability realm,” Edgington said. “We will also honor the green roof with a piece about the senior class gift.”

There is no word on what exactly the additions will do for students and other visitors who venture out onto the roof, but Edgington insisted that they’ll make for a better experience. These elements, like educational components and a weather station, will make the roof more efficient and sustainable as an environment.

The cold months of winter are making their way to Happy Valley, keeping students away from enjoying the last component to the new HUB expansion. It may be some more time before students get to step foot on the new green roof, but it gives Penn State time to make some necessary additions for an improved environment.