By Ella Studdard
Are these renovations really working towards the benefits of the students and staff, or are they doing a little too much?
Six projects still remain in progress and nearly $39 million, in total, has been invested into renovations the past four years, according to the State University Construction Fund. There has been a flurry of opinions scattered across the campus during the first few weeks of classes regarding this subject.
Sundowner is down, and this has caused general outrage campus wide. The lack of food options and the copious selections of coffee have drawn a clear line of disruption in many students’ diets. Renovations placed to help with dining accessibility have accidentally hindered it.
“Better Clinton food,” one student said when asked about changes they wanted to see on campus.
There are too little options and a lot of frustration. In an optimistic light, some students believe with the lack of dining options it allows them to venture outside of their normal picks.
One junior said that, now relying on new dining options, they have been able to see more of the campus this year compared to the last. With low food options, the inclusion of Starbucks has been received positively among the campus population.
Many students feel their voices have been heard and there is a clear undertone of excitement for The Cardinal Nest, that’s opening next semester.
Convenience was the word of the day when it comes to the renovations that are actually finished. ADA — or the Americans with Disabilities Act- accommodations can be spotted around campus. Ramps, handicap doors and wheelchair accessibility have been included in various buildings.
Matthew Edward, Senior, spoke outwardly about Memorial Hall and how much it’s improved despite its lengthy construction time.
“Redcay-it’s gross in there.” Edward said related to the changes he wants to see on campus.
Redcay Hall is one of the many buildings that have yet to see any renovations in the past years Other students also mentioned Macdonough Hall and Wilson Hall .
When comparing Redcay, Macdonough, and Wilson to other buildings, with an exponential amount of renovations, unfortunately, they seem deeply behind, and students have noticed.
The thoughts are clear. The parking lot construction is annoying and the Sundowner being closed has led many students astray when it comes to a late night snack.
There are still changes needed, especially for ADA accommodations, but what has been done is admired. Students feel their voices are considered. Hopefully doing too much will become doing enough.
