Campus Center construction begins

Phase one of the Campus Center renovations has begun, with construction sealing off the first and third floor restrooms, and the second floor bookstore entrance.

Restrooms will receive automated fixtures and become compatible with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Also, the former bookstore entrance will become similar to a subway entrance, with a protective rail and stairs leading down to a new entrance on the first floor, according to Associate Director of Campus Center Operations Shawn Kyono.

Additionally, the bleacher- style forum seats are being removed to create a more open atmosphere for students, said Campus Center Board President That Nam Tran "Sonny" Ton.

The $1.2 million phase one renovation will address energy issues and upgrade student gathering spaces.

This is the first of three phases, which aim "to restructure Campus Center to be able to support the educational, co-curricular, and social needs of the current and future generations of students," Ton said.

In line with UHM's goal to create less of a commuter atmosphere, later renovations will include the construction of a $38 million recreation center and a full-service coffee lounge. The second floor offices will also be converted into retail spaces.

"It will catch our campus up with those (schools) nationwide," Kyono said. "Students can have a safe place to balance school and health."

The Campus Center Board has been working toward this renovation since 2000, considering the renovation "a priority" since Campus Center has not been renovated since its 1974 construction. The board lobbied the Hawai‘i State Legislature for $1 million for phase one's renovation.

The funding for phase two and three will be obtained through the sale of general obligation bonds by the State Legislature, an increase in student activity fees and donations raised through the UH Foundation.

Phase one is expected to end before fall, while phase two is slated to begin construction in 2010.

"We're on the right track and moving along," Kyono said.

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