News Summary
Jacksonville University plans to renovate the Kinne University Center’s banquet room with an $800,000 budget this spring. The update will create a modern, multifunctional space for students, featuring new windows, flooring, lighting, and furniture. Set to be completed by fall 2023, the room will allow 24/7 access for various activities, supporting community and student engagement. The renovations respond to feedback from students gathered prior to the pandemic, emphasizing the need for flexible spaces on campus.
Jacksonville – Jacksonville University (JU) is set to commence renovations on the Kinne University Center’s banquet room this spring, with an estimated budget of $800,000. This major update aims to transform the 3,500 square-foot space into a more modern and functional area for students. The renovations are expected to be completed by fall 2023, according to university officials.
The renovation project will include important upgrades such as new windows, flooring, lighting, and furniture. A key feature of the updated banquet room will be its availability for 24/7 access, allowing students to utilize the space for various activities, including meetings, studying, and social gatherings. The location of the banquet room is particularly convenient as it is adjacent to the Riverview Cafe, which also provides a vibrant spot for students to dine and socialize.
Currently, a building permit for Balfour Beatty Construction LLC is under city review, with a job cost estimated at $510,603. The university anticipates that the final costs will be confirmed upon the project’s completion.
The renovation plans were developed as a response to a student survey conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to gather input for a strategic planning initiative. Students expressed a strong interest in creating a flexible space that would cater to various needs throughout the day, fostering a sense of community and support among the student body.
During the pandemic, JU adapted by utilizing the banquet room for overflow dining, facilitating social distancing and safe dining practices. This shift highlighted the potential of the banquet room as a multifunctional space, further reinforcing the necessity for a dedicated area where students can comfortably meet, study, eat, and unwind at their convenience.
The Kinne University Center has a rich history, originally being built in 1957 and later expanded in 1986 in honor of Dr. Frances Bartlett Kinne, a prominent figure in the university’s history. Dr. Kinne held the roles of president and chancellor, dedicating her life to the service of students at JU until her passing in May 2020 at the age of 102.
The center is a one-story facility, featuring a lower level that offers external access to both a post office and a bookstore. This strategic design helps facilitate student needs and enhances the accessibility of university resources.
As renovations move forward, JU and its students look ahead to a revamped Kinne University Center banquet room that promises to meet the evolving needs of its diverse student population. The enhancements are expected to not only upgrade the physical space but also to foster increased engagement and community among students, aligning with JU’s commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive university environment.
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Additional Resources
- Jacksonville Daily Record: JU Renovating Kinne University Center
- WTOP: Jeff Kinney Unveils Statue at UMD
- DBK News: Jeff Kinney Statue Unveiling
- Chicago Business: Whitaker Kinne Group Opens
- Monmouth Hawks: Hall of Fame Class Celebration
- Wikipedia: Jacksonville University
- Google Search: Kinne University Center
- Google Scholar: Kinne University Center
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jacksonville, Florida
- Google News: Jacksonville University Renovations
