Photo: Robin Besse

Master Planning changes on campus
By Robin Besse - Red & Green Editor

Students who have taken a stroll across the Minot State campus recently have probably spotted a few changes.

As part of the Master Plan, a number of physical changes have been made to the campus. Campus buildings such as Crane and Pioneer Hall now have the building's names displayed, so that individuals know the name of the building. In addition, several 5' x 40" signs have been put up near the entrances of University buildings, which list the name of the structure and the departments it holds.

MSU President David Fuller said he thinks that the increased signage on campus was definitely required.

"That's part of the need to make sure that everything on campus is identified so that visitors who come to campus know how to get around," he said.

Signage on campus isn't the only thing that's changed, however. Work has recently begun on the Student Center renovation. The main entrance to the Student Center will soon hold a welcome center, a space designed not only to welcome visitors but also to function as the University post office. The post office from the second floor of the Student Center will be moved to that location.

"It's going to be a welcome center or desk. It will have all the functions of a post office, but it will also serve to greet visitors and give directions on how to go to places on campus," Fuller said. "It's important that we be friendly and welcoming to people when they step in the door."

In addition to the new welcome center, the entire first floor of the Student Center will soon be remodeled. The entrance to the swimming pool will be renovated, while the atrium will receive new paint, floors, and computer kiosks for students. The current Prairie Room will be converted into a Starbuck's, and there will be tables for people to come out and have coffee.

"I want to make it more open and accessible, and make it more attractive and welcoming to people," Fuller said.

The MSU Bookstore, which was originally set to be remodeled over the past summer, will also see some changes.

"When Barnes & Noble took over the bookstore, there were a lot of changes dealing with inventory and staff. They decided that once they got set up they would start dealing with renovation," Fuller said. "We will time that renovation with the rest of the Student Center, so there may be a few weeks towards the end of the fall semester when the bookstore will be closed."

The second floor of the Student Center will also see some additional changes such as new paint and furniture.

The MSU president said he hopes to see the project finished by next May.

"Most of the dirty work will happen this fall semester, and will start finishing up by the end of the spring semester. It's hard to say when the grand opening will be, but we're hoping to have it completed by the end of the academic year."

The total estimated cost of the project is $481,300, according to a report that was introduced at the State Board of Higher Education meeting a few weeks ago.

Fuller said that he would like the soon-to-be-designed atrium to have the same type of feel as the Beaver Dam, which was also recently renovated. He hopes that the new Student Center design will encourage

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