DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) — Calhoun Community College has officially broken ground on a new $17 million student union building, marking a major step forward in enhancing campus life and student engagement.
The new approximately $17 million, two-story, 29,800-square-foot facility was designed to bring students together for social activities, dining, academic pursuits, and more.
“A space like this has been needed for a long time,” said Dr. Jimmy Hodges, Calhoun Community College President. “The new Student Union building represents progress, innovation, and our commitment to creating an environment where students can connect, have fun, learn, and truly feel a sense of belonging on campus. For years, our Decatur campus has lacked sufficient food options for students, and this facility solves that problem while providing a vibrant space for students. It is not just a building; it reflects how Calhoun continues to grow while prioritizing the needs of our students.”
The facility houses areas for community activities and group meetings, as well as zones for relaxation and studying. In addition, the commercial kitchen is the first of its kind on campus, providing expanded dining options and potential opportunities for future culinary programs.
Outdoor areas were also designed to support the overall experience and to motivate group gatherings. These outdoor spaces include seat walls, furnishings, canopies, and planters that can be utilized throughout the year to extend the indoor/outdoor experience for students and visitors.
Th new student union building will also include large flexible recreation and meeting rooms, retail and dining zones, semi-private study rooms, social seating lobby, reception area, coffee shop, bookstore, and multifunctional student commons.
The lobby transitions into a dining and kitchen facility designed to serve a variety of food choices for students and staff. The second floor features more focused areas including a library, independent study pods, a computer training area, staff offices, and a flexible meeting room.
University officials say that the student union building is set to open by Spring 2027.
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