UT Tyler Announces University Center Addition
November 21, 2005
The University of Texas at Tyler will construct an $15.3 million three-story addition to the University Center, Dr. Dale Lunsford, vice president of student affairs and external relations, announced.
“This addition will transform the University Center into a new hub for the university’s growing residential student population,” Dr. Lunsford said.
The addition is still pending approval from the UT System Board of Regents.
The 38,000 square foot addition will include new dining, meeting and recreation facilities. In proximity to the Herrington Patriot Center and the new Ornelas Residence Hall, the new building will anchor student life for the campus. Ground breaking is expected in spring 2006 with a completion date of fall 2007, added Dr. Howard Patterson, dean of student affairs.
A spacious student restaurant will be the focus of the building’s first floor. Two-story glass walls will give students a view of Harvey Lake for breakfast, lunch and dinner meals. The dining facility will be open to both residential and commuter students, Dr. Lunsford added.
The second floor will contain another restaurant with recreation space for pool tables, video games and student activities. This restaurant will have a sports-theme and feature large video displays for televised sporting events. A convenience store will also be included in the second floor. This will give students several “grab-and-go” options for food and miscellaneous convenience products.
The third floor will provide student organizations vital space. Offices, meeting rooms and work areas for student government, Greek life and student organizations will be created. A ballroom will also be added for hosting bigger events, such as banquets, conferences or concerts.
“The main objectives are to fulfill the student’s need of dining services, student organization meeting spaces and student development activities,” said Dr. Patterson.
One of the 15 campuses of the UT System, UT Tyler offers excellence in teaching, research, artistic performance and community service. More than 70 undergraduate and graduate degree programs are available at UT Tyler, which has an enrollment of more than 5,700 high-ability students at its campuses in Tyler, Longview and Palestine.
