The final piece of a campus renovation project started in 1998 is finally on track for completion.

Overlooked in the original renovation of the University Center due to financial constraints of the time, the game room faces a similar situation this year. Recent budget issues have postponed improvements that were scheduled over the summer semester.

"While we're disappointed in the delays that have put off this project for months, we're excited that UTM students will have more input on tall aspects of the project." said Steve Vantrease, University Center Director.

Among immediate changes are the installation of new tile flooring near the present main entrance, and the placement of a Café á la Cart modular food service system. Sodexho Dining Services has placed a similar arrangement in Gooch Hall late last month.

The SGA, SAC, Sodexho and University Center staff collaborated during the planning phase last spring with several informal meetings. Vantrease made a trip to Nashville with Sodexho and SGA officials last spring, and has since traveled to other universities across the mid-south.

"I'm looking forward to the game room opening because it is a wonderful new improvement to the UTM campus," said Amber Lassan, a sophomore Parks and Recreation major from Fairview, TN.

Among other amenities to be added are more new computers, a new big screen television, amusement games, two more ATMs and vending machines that complement the food service. Major construction changes include the opening of the wall to the main corridor of the UC hallway, carpeting, lighting enhancements and a fresh coat of paint.

Mike Davis, director of Building Services, says that the Physical Plant was "unable to make the opening into the main corridor with the money available this summer." Davis also says that The Color Shop in Martin has been contracted for this portion of the project, and is working closely with the University Center and the student committee. Joey Pierce, a member of the student committee and election commissioner for the SGA, says, "The tile has been approved by [the student committee], and is awaiting confirmation from the university.

"Bringing in gourmet variety foods and coffee will be worth the wait." says Mr. Eric Tolbert, SGA President. "If this much work is done on this project, just imagine what can be done with other parts of the campus."

For more information, contact Mr. Brian Davis, SGA Campus Observation chair at sga@utm.edu or extension 7785, or Mr. Steve Vantrease at stevev@utm.edu or extension 7755.