Tables and chairs located around the UMC dining area are closed off as a precautionary measure due to COVID-19. March 17, 2020 (Kevin Wu/CU Independent)
The University of Colorado Boulder is starting a major construction project at the University Memorial Center in January. The project is set to finish in July 2026, according to the UMC website.
The construction will improve the UMC heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system and the Campus Dining Services loading dock. It will also impact the pavement between the UMC and Center for Academic Success and Engagement buildings. The updates intend to, “modernize a portion of the UMC facilities, improve safety and enhance overall functionality.”
The first-floor dining rooms and the north dining stage will be closed during construction, along with five surrounding restaurants. The restaurants include Subway, Panda Express, Starbucks, Alferd Packer Grill and Infinitus Pie.
The Connection and the UMC market will remain open during construction. Other student services based in the UMC will also remain open. The website includes a complete list of amenities available during construction.
The construction will temporarily relocate Events, Planning and Catering operations, which will limit menu options and event volume.
The project will improve the HVAC system by connecting new units to the campus’s chilled water system. It will also remove a non-functioning cooling tower.
Additional changes to the first floor include implementing energy-efficient LED lighting to the west dining area and replacing an aging kitchen utility distribution panel.
The Campus Dining Services loading dock is being expanded to improve efficiency according to the website. The project will also install an infrared snow-melt system at the book store dock ramp. Both the changes aim to increase safety.
The UMC administration will share further updates on the website along with the UMC’s X and Facebook accounts. Updates can also be found in the CU Boulder Today newsletter.
“Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we work to create a new and improved University Memorial Center for our campus community,” the website reads.
Contact CU Independent news editor Avery Clifton at Avery.Clifton@colorado.edu
