The Culp Center is set to reopen in March 2020, with grand opening activities taking place at the beginning of the month.
“Fortunately, the Culp Center renovation project has remained aligned with its original schedule, and when considering the scope of the work being done, the overall process has progressed smoothly,” said Leah Adinolfi, assistant dean for student engagement.
The Culp has been under renovation since August 2014 and has been closed since May 2018, with the post office, marketplace and bookstore being the only services that continue to operate there.
The $45.5 million renovation that was scheduled to reopen in spring 2020 is on track, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place March 6 at 10 a.m. to mark its grand opening.
“At this time, we anticipate having all offices settled by Feb. 24, with a series of grand opening activities to be held the week of March 1, 2020,” said Adinolfi.
She said the events are being planned by a committee of student leaders and team members from across the division, and students will receive a full schedule beforehand.
The updated Culp Center will offer new dining options including Steak n’ Shake, Boar’s Head Deli and Mein Bowl, as well as Starbucks and Chick-Fil-A.
There will also be a new media center, which will facilitate the East Tennessean and eventually the student-run radio station, The Edge 89.5 HD4..
Gaming equipment will be updated in the Cave, which will make for a better gaming experience for students looking to hangout and play video games with friends.
“We are grateful to the many partners who have helped to keep this project moving quickly without neglecting any details,” said Adinolfi.
