News Summary
Long Beach, California, has officially commenced construction on the Future U Project, aimed at renovating the University Student Union. The project addresses deferred maintenance and enhances student life by centralizing university services and introducing new amenities, including a Wellness Garden. Although students look forward to improvements, some express disappointment at missing out before graduation. The renovations aim to improve accessibility and provide better dining options for a growing student body.
Long Beach, California, has officially begun construction on the Future U Project, marking the largest construction initiative within the California State University system. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on September 19, 2023, with an anticipated completion date set for the summer of 2028.
The original University Student Union (USU), which opened its doors in 1972, is undergoing substantial renovations in response to significant deferred maintenance and outdated features. The urgency for renovation was underscored by the critical infrastructure failures affecting the current USU, with many systems having exceeded their life expectancy. The Vice President of Student Affairs, Beth Lesen, emphasized the USU’s role as a vital gathering hub for students, often referred to as the “heartbeat of the campus” by Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson.
Approximately 100 attendees, including notable figures such as Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson and California State University Long Beach (CSULB) Interim President Andrew Jones, participated in the groundbreaking event. The Future U Project aims to centralize various university services currently dispersed around the campus, enhancing overall accessibility for students.
Associated Students, Inc. President Sonny Ciampa discussed the project’s potential to improve campus life by introducing new food options and relaxation areas, including the introduction of a proposed Wellness Garden. As the USU was originally designed to accommodate 10,000 students, the growing enrollment at CSULB, now exceeding 42,000 students, necessitated this expansion.
While many students expressed appreciation for the future improvements, some shared sentiments of disappointment, particularly those who will graduate before the new USU opens. For instance, 20-year-old psychology major Noah Ossa voiced appreciation for the changes but lamented not experiencing the benefits during his studies at the university.
The newly renovated USU is expected to host nine approved food vendors aimed at enhancing dining options on campus, reflecting student concerns for affordable and healthier food alternatives. Current dining options include popular vendors like El Pollo Loco, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and Shake Smart, while existing food services will remain operational throughout the construction period. Food trucks and hot food vending machines will provide continued service, and temporary kitchen trailers will accommodate two current vendors during the renovations. Additionally, there will be an increase in farmers market days, from two to four days per week, during construction.
With significant investments in the Future U Project, CSULB aims to address current challenges faced by the USU while enhancing the overall student experience. The renovations are expected to revolutionize campus life and ensure that essential services and amenities cater to the needs of a growing student body, ultimately benefiting both current and future generations of CSULB students.
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Additional Resources
- Long Beach State Breaks Ground on Future U Project
- Wikipedia: California State University
- Catching the Wave: Athletes Emerge as Big West Play Approaches
- Google Search: CSULB Future U Project
- Latine Welcome Fosters Belonging Support Amid Challenging Times
- Google Scholar: California State University Long Beach USU
- CSULB Narrows Down Potential Food Vendors for Future U
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Future U Project CSULB
- CSULB College Departments Prepare for Academic Overhaul
- Google News: Long Beach California Future U Project
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
