The Michigan Union will close its doors on April 30th, 2018 to undergo a significant renovation. The project is scheduled to be completed in early 2020. During the renovations, the Union food vendors will not be available and all departments currently housed in the Union will be moved to other campus locations.
Why is it closing?
The Union was built in 1919 and needs repairs and renovations so that it can continue to support students for many decades to come. The project is estimated to cost $85.2 million and is being supported by the current USFIF fee of $65 a semester and independent donations.
Where are departments moving too?
Central Student Government – North Quad
Computer Showcase – Shapiro Undergraduate Library
CAPS – Tappan Auxiliary Building (Near the Ross School of Business)
Dean of Students & Beyond the Diag – Tappan Auxiliary Building (Near the Ross School of Business)
Office of Greek Life – Tappan Auxiliary Building (Near the Ross School of Business)
MUTO – The Michigan League
MESA – Trotter Multicultural Center (1443 Washtenaw Ave.)
SAPAC – West Quad (Room 1551, Near the Connector)
Spectrum Center – Trotter Multicultural Center (1443 Washtenaw Ave.)
SORC – The Michigan League
Check out the full list of offices and the specific dates for these relocations through Re:Union.
How will students use the new spaces?
The new Union will have updated spaces to help support student life and culture at U-M. The IdeaHub will help better student orgs collaboration and support of their members. More study spaces are going to be created on the first floor for student use, and the overall accessibility of the building will be improved.
How have students been involved in the planning process?
The Michigan Union Board of Representatives and Building a Better Michigan are student groups currently working on planning for the Union renovations. These students visited unions and student life centers on other university campuses over the past several years and incorporated their favorite design features into the Michigan Union plans.
What else will be changing during the renovations?
Sadly, the Billiards room and private office spaces for student organizations will not be returning after the renovations. Furthermore, the Michigan Union sign will not be available for photos during 2019 graduation.
If you have any more questions or want to look further into the renovation, check out the Re:Union project website!
Contributed by William W, Neighborhood Ambassador-Elbel