The new Vista Grande dining hall, which was originally projected to open Fall 2018, has been delayed a full year, to open Fall 2019.
The dining hall will be replacing the old Vista Grande Cafe which closed in Summer 2016, offering twice the space in a three-story building with market and restaurant components.
The delay
Facilities Management & Development Spokesperson Jessica Hunter wrote to Mustang News regarding factors affecting the construction timeline. The main issue the construction team faced was an extended plan approval process through the Office of the State Fire Marshal. The university expected a quicker approval process and planned to be cleared for construction in November 2016.
Actual construction did not begin until July 2017, nine months behind schedule. Hunter also stated the team had to extend the construction timeline to cater to complexities of the building’s design that required exact sequencing for a successful build.
Construction progress
Vista Grande is currently under active construction throughout the entire complex. The first level is being prepared for exterior finish installation; floors have been poured and structural welding is underway on level two. The roof is secured on the building and utility work including electrical, sewer, storm water, domestic water and gas are being trenched and connected to various connection points surrounding the facility.