The main dining area of Kriner Hall is being reviewed for space utilization plans because Chartwells has reported that the dining space is consistently underutilized, according to Chief External Relations Officer Kim Garris.

A study dated Jan. 25, 2019, which was previously listed on ship.edu, evaluates Kriner’s ability to house computer science labs, as well as the steam plant’s ability to house the mechanical and civil engineering labs. 

All labs in both buildings would be part of the School of Engineering.

The document is part of the university’s exploration of alternative uses for the space in Kriner, according to media relations/social media manager Megan Silverstrim.

“The study focused on evaluating the physical conditions of the proposed buildings and identify improvements necessary to meet current construction standards, code requirements and realize the university’s vision into tangible educational environment. Careful consideration was given to the space planning of proposed lab equipment but also potential growth of the school. Flexible learning environments to promote student and faculty collaboration in a clear organized arrangement with an emphasis on visual supervision was pursued,” the study says.

Kriner was originally built in 1958, and a small addition was built in 1963. The total building contains 31,000 square feet. If the redesign occurred, it would emphasize the maximum utilization of the space while being flexible to learning spaces, according to the study.

If this study was fully implemented, the building would include open labs, offices, work rooms and storage spaces. There would be about 120 to 150 high-end graphics enabled computers in the computer graphics area. The entire cost of the Kriner renovation would be $1,721,381, the study says.

However, the reconstruction would not take away all dining options from Kriner Hall.

“We are looking at new and enhanced dining options in the front of Kriner, while maintaining the sub shop,” Garris said. “We have had conversations with and will continue to discuss with student leaders how to best maximize food options for all students across campus.”

Garris only mentioned the sub shop, King Street Subs, but did not mention if Papa John’s would remain open.

Terry Nahavandi, resident district manager of dining services, said he has heard rumors of Kriner’s possible closure, but nothing official has been communicated to him by the university.

Kriner staff members also reported that the university has not communicated the future of the dining hall with them.

The study says that construction on Kriner would run from January to April 2020.

The study is listed below:

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