Utility Work Starts On HUB-Robeson Expansion

9-2-97
University Park, Pa. --- After more than two years of careful planning by students, staff and faculty, the dirt is finally moving as workers relocate utilities in preparation for the construction of Penn State's new HUB-Robeson Complex at the University Park campus.

The actual building construction will begin later this fall, but utilities such as water, sewer and electrical lines must be in place first.

"We are excited about moving ahead and seeing the design become reality," said Craig Millar, associate vice president for student affairs. "Services such as the HUB Eateries will be available during the two years of the construction, although some meeting rooms will not be available at all times. For example, the existing HUB Ballroom, one of the most popular rooms, will close mid-May 1998 through approximately fall semester 1998. Parts of the Ray Lounge, also known as the Fishbowl, will close permanently May 1998 to become part of the new entrance.

"We appreciate everyone's patience as we cope with these modifications," he noted.

Stan Latta, director of the Office of Unions and Student Activities, noted, "A few visitors have asked questions about the site fence and the size of the project. When completed, the new complex will occupy only 15 percent of the total lawn area, while providing a contemporary facility for our students, faculty, staff and alumni."

The linear addition will run from the west end of the HUB to the middle of the south wall of the Penn State Bookstore. It will be connected to the existing building with a four-story atrium. Portions of the existing HUB will be renovated to incorporate the atrium and new Pollock Road entrance. The new Paul Robeson Cultural Center will have a distinctive oval shape at the east end of the addition.

Student organizations and university departments scheduling events for 1997, 1998 and 1999 should plan early and contact Betsy Boyer, Office of Student Activities, by calling 865-7973 or visiting 226 HUB. Ground-floor windows and tables will be available only during fall semester 1997. The current Robeson Cultural Center will be available for events for most of the next two years, and space can be served by calling 865-1779.

Currently, most entrances at the HUB and Penn State Bookstore are open with the exception of the ground-floor doors near the Billiards Room. There is access to the ground-floor doors at the east end around the construction fence. The HUB parking deck is currently open.

For updates on the construction project, check the web site at http://www.psu.edu/HUB/Expansion/

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Contact: Vicki Fong at (814) 865-9481 or vyf1@psu.edu