I'd have to look closer at it next time I'm in Fargo...I always though the Union expansion was farther out than maybe it is?
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I think the map Tony posted accurately places the existing Memorial Union.
The original plan was to put the building about where the Churchill Field icon is. The plan included a bus dropoff location off of University so city busses wouldn't have to drive through campus and pick up people south of the union parking lot. The current planned location seems to be right around the N/S sidewalk separating the union patio from the Churchill quad.
Count me among those unhappy with the general location. I can easily think of a half dozen other locations that would work as well and not give up that developed green space.
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o...ps249407a2.jpg
I didn't like the original location because I really like Churchill Field, but bisonaudit's idea of putting smack dab on Churchill Field and putting quad between the memorial union makes sense (if they rip up some of the concrete.)
Too bad we can't just move buildings all over or start with a blank slate.
BTW, I wonder if NDSU has a long-term plan. I'd actually be kind of surprised because it takes decades from the time NDSU makes something its number 1 building priority to the Legislature acting on it (unless the Feds or donors kick in more than half the money.) Usually, it's more effective to wait for an alumnus to buy a building downtown or wait for the old building to collapse. On the other hand, if NDSU makes something their number 1 building priority, it gives certain guys in the Legislature something to feel good about not doing at NDSU. :)
The construction fence is up for the project. It extends all the way from the sidewalk along University to the Union patio, and from Dinan to Churchill. All of the trees and shrubs in this area have been removed, and it looks like construction will begin very soon.
In other news, the building that housed the former NDSU post office was demolished yesterday.