CSULB begins new chapter as it breaks ground on $315M student union renovation and expansion

Cal State Long Beach celebrated its ceremonial groundbreaking for the University Student Union renovation and expansion "Future U" project Friday - an historic occasion marking the kickoff of the $315 million project.

The event, held outdoors on the lawn in front of the campus bookstore, took on a festive, party feel. As a DJ played old school jams in the background, attendees noshed on pastries and coffee, sat for their caricature, posed at the photo booth, tried their creativity at one of the arts & crafts tables or simply reconnected with colleagues.

CSULB President Andrew Jones '82, who recalled spending countless hours at The Beach as a student and a staff member, said he has a keen understanding of the importance of the USU and what its transformation means to the campus community and, especially, to the 42,000-strong student population.

"(Students') insights, ideas and support - and those of other stakeholders - guide our work and will ensure that the new USU enhances campus life and, most importantly, meets the needs of current and future generations of students.

"The new USU will elevate the student experience by creating modern, inclusive, innovative spaces and amenities that foster connections while supporting wellness, sustainability and leadership development," Jones said.

Associated Students Inc.'s original USU, which opened its doors in September 1972, was envisioned by the class of 1965, who recognized the need for a union: a living room for students, a place beyond the classroom to forge friendships, debate ideas and create lasting bonds, said Jaydee Phung, the event's emcee and chair of the University Student Union & Student Recreation and Wellness Center's Board of Trustees.

"As we break ground today, we are not just building for the students of today, but for those yet to come. For our younger siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews - and perhaps even our own children - who will one day walk this campus and benefit from the legacy we are shaping together," Phung said.

Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson called the project on the 53-year-old-building, "A milestone for Cal State Long Beach and an investment in our students and our city. When CSULB students succeed, Long Beach succeeds."

"This project ensures students have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive here on campus and, ultimately, to strengthen the future of Long Beach."

The sheer magnitude of the project and the countless people involved showed the power of The Beach's can-do spirit, said Mark Zakhour, associate vice president of Beach Building Services.

"This week will be remembered as the week we proved what's possible," he said.

"To every planner, designer, tradesperson, ASI leader student advocate, regulator and campus partner, thank you. We're about to put shovels in the ground, but we're really breaking open is possibility - a Future U that is Beach-built."

The project, which began in April with construction on the Friendship Walk Stairs, is scheduled to be completed by summer 2028.