MUC expansion on track for 2014

A major destination hub for students at the University of South Dakota, the Muenster University Center expansion is one of the most visible improvements being made to campus, as construction crews add an additional 30,000 square feet to the existing 70,000-square -foot structure.

Once completed, the newly expanded structure will have the capacity to house 1,200 students, whereas the current structure only accommodates about 450. With plans to expand dining options, increase seating areas and revamp the social environment, the MUC expansion is expected to be fully operational in the spring of 2014.

At an estimated cost of nearly $10 million, the construction project, under the direction of Sioux Falls Construction, has made significant progress since its ground breaking back in late last fall.

During finals week, the last of the structural beams were being installed, the pouring of concrete to create the foundation had begun and electrical wiring was being strung throughout the construction site.

When returning and new students come to campus to begin their fall semester, they can expect the outside façade of the building to be nearly complete, with much of the remaining construction work occurring inside the structure.

Over the 2013 winter holiday, the final construction phase will begin, which involves connecting the existing MUC building to the newly built additions. A remodel inside of the old MUC structure is also expected to take place at this time, which will unify the three buildings into one large student union building.