Renovations of the D.P. Culp Student Center continue amid the pandemic, but social distancing precautions are being implemented to reduce student activity inside.
Prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Culp Center began to reopen to the public with areas such as the third floor and the Cave still under construction.
A large LED video wall has been installed in the Cave, and the Esports practice facility is currently under construction.
The third floor has almost been completely opened.
Disability services was completed and moved in over the summer. The forum was made more accessible for people with disabilities.
All meeting areas have had technology upgrades, including cameras, PCs and large screens.
“I foresee people using some of the technology in the space perhaps for student organizations,” said Leah Adinolfi, the associate dean of students. “For example, they could use a meeting room to have their elected officials or elected officers come and be in person and use that technology to do Zoom with their full membership.”
ITS services will be available to people using this equipment. Also, instructions for use will be present in each room.
New directional signage and ETSU insignia is going up across the building. Signage will also include pandemic protection reminders.
Large group gatherings and other student activity are being discouraged to maintain safety protocols.
Restaurants will be operating under adjusted hours.
“Steak ‘n Shake will be open for lunch and dinner, Starbucks will be open for breakfast and lunch and Rogers Buc Mart will be open all day with Boar’s Head Deli as well,” Adinolfi said. “Students will have some options with their meal plans to be able to use in some of those spaces, too.”
The dining hall will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. with overflow seating in the ballroom. Ballroom renovations have been put on hold due to current conditions.
