This fall, students on meal plan have been able to enjoy their meals at a brighter, more accessible Sharpe Refectory.
Workers spent the entire summer on the renovations, which included installing a new elevator and repairing lighting.
Planning for the dining hall's renovation began in January, following Rhode Island fire code upgrades that went into effect in July 2005. Renovations began soon after Commencement, and work continued throughout the summer until the Sunday before Orientation. The entire project cost $4.6 million, according to Stephen Maiorisi, vice president for Facilities Management.
"The minute Commencement ended, renovations began," said Gretchen Willis, director of Dining Services. "The administrative offices at the Sharpe Refectory had to move out to a different location for the entire summer and were able to move back in on Aug. 14."
Though the main purpose of the renovation was to bring the Ratty into compliance with upgraded fire codes and increase wheelchair accessibility, the University also made long-awaited changes to improve the atmosphere of the dining hall.
The renovations included extensive repair work on the Ratty's ceilings and energy conservation improvements on lighting in the lower level of the building and the Ivy Room. Workers also added a new sprinkler system and a wheelchair-accessible elevator at the main entrance, replaced steam pipes and upgraded electrical panels, Maiorisi said.
"These renovations were very much needed," Willis said. "The dining hall gets very crowded, especially during Commencement. Students and families now have the accessibility to get around the building easily now."
Interim Vice President for Campus Life and Student Services Russell Carey '91 MA'06 said he is very pleased with the completed project. "Lighting improvements were not only done in the main dining hall but in the kitchens and offices as well, which allow the staff to enjoy better surroundings at work. The Sharpe Refectory is now both physically and psychologically accessible," Carey said.
The administration is soliciting feedback from students about the renovations. President Ruth Simmons visited the Ratty Sept. 12 to ask students their opinions of the renovations.
Students seem to have mixed feelings about the results of the renovated dining hall. "Although there were a few problems that couldn't be addressed mostly due to budget, they have made a major improvement," said UCS Class Representative Deanna Chaukos '08. "It hasn't been renovated in such a long time and what they've done seems good."
Nina Mozes '08 said, "I like that it's brighter, although it seems to be the only major difference made."
Jennifer Coletta '09 was not impressed with the renovation. "The lighting in the dining hall seems to be too bright and the alcoves are still too dark," she said. "I really haven't noticed any improvement."
While the project is complete, officials will continue identifying problems that that need to be addressed, Willis said. "One thing I know students and staff are concerned about is the high noise levels that are reached in the dining hall," she said.
