Although no plans have been finalized, administrators say that there are various construction plans under consideration that would revamp the Mallinckrodt Student Center.

Pending approval by the Board of Trustees, the planned construction is expected to cost more than $20 million. The start date for this project is not yet known.

Mallinckrodt will serve to complement the amenities being offered in the new Danforth University Center (DUC).

“We want both buildings to work in tandem,” said Jill Carnaghi, assistant vice chancellor for students and director of campus life.

While plans have not yet been finalized, Steven Hoffner, assistant vice chancellor of real estate, has several ideas.

According to Hoffner, under the proposal Mallinckrodt’s current upper level will cease to be the top floor. A third floor above ground will be added, which will house academic offices.

The Graduate School of Arts & Sciences and the College Office would be moved to the top floor from their current locations in North and South Brookings Hall. Additionally, the Office of Student Records would be moved from the Women’s Building and University College office would be moved from its current space in January Hall.

The Performing Arts Department is expected to gain space on the top floor as well.

On the lower level, Hoffner said the Gargoyle would likely be renovated to become black box theater space, though it would continue to be a space available for concerts. A new addition may be attached to the north side, where Bowles Plaza is currently located.

Additionally, the food court would be moved. In the front seating area, a new kitchen and cafeteria will be built, while the Campus Bookstore will likely absorb the backmost seating. The existing eateries will be removed to make way for part of the new addition.

“During the construction phase, the bank and copy center will be moved to the food court seating area on a temporary basis,” said Hoffner.

On the main level, the Edison Theatre will be preserved as it is, but the bookstore will be renovated. Mallinckrodt’s main hallway is expected to house a new food vendor, the details of which the University and Bon Appétit are still negotiating.

The Bank of America and Kinko’s branches will be permanently relocated to the main level, where the Hilltop Bakery is now. A new office devoted to Campus Card services will be placed alongside the familiar vendors.

Hoffner said that those involved in the planning hope this “retail corridor” ensures “there will still be a lot of foot traffic through the building.”

The DUC will contain primarily student groups and services. Community service groups, Greek Life, WUTV, Media Services and Student Life will all be housed in the DUC, a space Jill Carnaghi said is meant to be “used by everyone and owned by no one.”

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