UF to hold groundbreaking for Reitz Student Union expansion Saturday

September 16, 2013

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The University of Florida will celebrate the start of construction on the Reitz Student Union expansion with a groundbreaking ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday on the North Lawn.

The expansion and renovation project will add needed student activities space to accommodate UF’s student body. The project includes the construction of a new 100,000-square-foot multi-level structure, designed to meet U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, platinum certification. Additionally, up to 50,000 square feet of the existing building will be renovated.

Among the honored guests attending the event, speakers will include UF President Bernie Machen, Board of Trustees Chairman C. David Brown III and state Rep. Seth McKeel, R-Lakeland.

The $75 million expansion and renovation project will include offices and support space for student clubs and organizations including Student Government, offices and program space for the Center for Leadership and Service, the Department of Student Activities and Involvement, the Office of Multicultural and Diversity Affairs, and GatorWell Health Promotion Services. The new construction will also include lounges and study spaces, meeting rooms, dance rehearsal studios and a “new” Orange & Brew.

Project completion is expected for fall 2015.

Since 1967, the Reitz Student Union has been the center of student activities and the heart of student involvement. It serves more than 20,000 students, faculty, staff, and visitors each day.

Private support can still be made to support the space where Gators become leaders. To make a donation or to learn more about expansion and renovation, visit http://www.makeitreitz.com

The expansion and renovation were designed by Cannon Design and Walker Architects and the Skanska is the construction management company.

The Reitz Student Union is part of the Division of Student Affairs at the University of Florida. Student Affairs provides a wide range of services, educational opportunities, learning, support, outreach, activities and engagement in multiple facilities.