Richland Campus students returned this week to find the cafeteria reopened after renovations over the winter break. The updated space is functional but still incomplete, with some final work pending.
The renovations included electrical upgrades and new flooring. Marcus Franci, a member of Christman Facility Solutions’ electrical department, explained the changes. “We’re adding new pendant lights and new accent lighting as far as electrical goes, and then new flooring,” he said.
“The lighting will still be functional, but you won’t see the accent lighting until a couple weeks.”
Aidan Navarro, electrical foreman at Christman Facility Solutions, said students can now use the space despite some ongoing work. “You’ll be able to, like, occupy the space,” Navarro said. The team is waiting on light fixtures and furniture to complete the project.
Regarding the addition to the lighting, Franci said, ““The fixtures that you see there, the two-by-two flat panels, will stay. We’re just going to add LED lighting and some pendant fixtures around the product.” The changes aim to improve both functionality and appearance.
The cafeteria’s new flooring and removal of barricades signal progress, but some finishes are delayed. Navarro said, “Our portion of the project isn’t wrapped up yet.” The remaining work is expected to take several weeks.
The cafeteria’s reopening aligns with the start of the spring semester, which offers students a usable space while renovations continue. Franci is optimistic about the progress so far. “It looks pretty good,” he said.
Students will notice the improvements as they return, but the full transformation will be visible once all elements are complete. For now, the cafeteria provides a functional space for students and staff as work progresses.
