Construction at the University of Kansas’ Kansas Union has resumed following a temporary shutdown tied to fire-code compliance issues, bringing renewed momentum to a project that has already disrupted campus life and business activity.
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The renovation, which began during winter break, is aimed at modernizing one of the busiest hubs on campus. However, the ongoing work has significantly altered foot traffic patterns and impacted tenant businesses within the facility.
Employees at Union businesses say the slowdown has been noticeable. Taylar Fagerberg, a student worker at the Union CoffeeHouse, said daily orders have dropped sharply since construction began.
"So it dropped significantly," Fagerberg said. "Now we're catching back up, but we're still not quite there."
Despite the decline, Fagerberg expressed optimism about the long-term improvements.
"I'm a senior this year, so I'm kind of sad that I'm leaving before I get to actually see the final product," she said. "But I really like that they're revamping everything and letting a new generation see a new Kansas."
Similar concerns were echoed by Thomas Burns, who works at the Hawk Shop. He noted that reduced accessibility has made it harder for students to visit.
"It's kind of an inconvenience right now. Obviously, it reduces the number of students that are able to be in here," Burns said.
Still, Burns acknowledged the benefits of the renovation once completed.
"I've taken a look at some of the stuff they are putting in," Burns said. "I'm excited to see some of the study areas that they will have. It will look pretty cool once they are done."
Foot traffic data underscores the slowdown. While the Union typically sees around 76,000 monthly visitors, January 2026 recorded approximately 52,000—down slightly from the previous year and reflective of construction-related disruptions.
University officials say the project is focused on transforming the fourth floor into a more welcoming, flexible space designed to foster community and engagement.
"We decided to create a space where students want to come, not necessarily where they have to come," said Union Executive Director Jack Kredo.
Planned upgrades include new flooring, updated furniture, enhanced lighting, improved signage and modern design elements. Features such as a gas fireplace, large-screen TVs and flexible seating areas are being incorporated to create a more comfortable environment.
The redesigned fourth level will also feature a World War I memorial wall honoring Jayhawks who lost their lives in service, adding a historical and commemorative dimension to the space.
Beyond the fourth floor, the $2 million project includes renovations to the Union’s 7,000-square-foot ballroom and new branding inside Woodruff Auditorium. Additional improvements are already underway, including upgraded flooring and study areas on the second level.
The project is funded through a combination of student fees and Union reserves. Officials said approximately $1.6 million in student fees has been saved for the renovation, with the remainder coming from operational funds.
Construction was briefly paused in February after state officials identified compliance issues related to fire safety regulations. Authorities determined that construction plans had not been fully approved, raising concerns about safety while the building remained open to the public.
To address the issue, the university worked with state agencies to implement corrective measures, including installing firewalls to separate active construction zones from public areas.
With those safeguards now in place, work has resumed, although portions of the fourth floor remain restricted as construction continues.
Kredo acknowledged that the project’s rapid start contributed to early confusion around signage and traffic flow within the building. He said efforts are now being made to minimize disruptions by scheduling work during weekends and off-peak hours.
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The CoffeeHouse and Hawk Shop remain open throughout the process, and officials expect the renovation to be completed by May 15. Any future changes or closures will be communicated to students and staff via email.
The Kansas Union renovation reflects a broader trend among universities investing in student-centered spaces that prioritize flexibility, comfort and community engagement. Modern campus unions are increasingly designed to serve as social and academic hubs, blending study areas, dining, and event spaces.
While short-term disruptions are common in such projects, institutions often view these upgrades as long-term investments in student experience and campus competitiveness.
At KU, the Union has not seen major updates to some areas since the early 1990s, making the current renovation one of the most significant overhauls in decades. Once completed, officials believe the refreshed space will better align with evolving student needs and expectations.
Originally reported by Alex Sajna / The Kansan in The Kansan.
