Q and A

What will be included in the expansion?

New and expanded social gathering lounges and study spaces with 24/7 access, computers, free wireless access, printing capability and bright, comfortable, open seating with windows and natural lighting
A multi-purpose theatre for movies, lectures, performances and a variety of student programs at no charge to SDSU students
Improved and expanded food and retail services to include healthier food options and expanded shopping conveniences
Space for more centralized student services and student life activities
A fitness facility for quick cardio and strength workouts

Why do we need more Student Union Space?

The current student union, Aztec Center, is grossly undersized to serve the student population. It was built in the late 1960s to support a student enrollment half the current size. The Campus Master Plan projects enrollment to increase from 32,000 to 45,000 students by 2025. Aztec Center severely lacks overall space for students, modern conveniences and 21st century technology that enhance the quality of campus life. Without an expansion, the student union would be unable to provide modern facilities and services to SDSU students and the campus community.

Who determined what would be included in the expansion?

Input and feedback was gathered from current SDSU students through a variety of focus groups and a scientific survey conducted by the SDSU Social Science Research Lab. Information from these studies determined what students want and need the most.

What environmental features will be addressed in the expansion?

The expansion will feature Sustainable Design also known as Green Building. This type of design minimizes energy and non-renewable resource use; considers both human and environmental health issues; and maximizes the integration of buildings into the physical environment, thereby enhancing the quality of life for all.

Will there be expanded hours including 24/7 access?

There will be 24/7 access to lounge and study space with computers, free internet access and printing capability. Expanded access to student organization office space will also be included.

Will current Aztec Center services be eliminated?

No, the plan is to expand and improve upon existing services and provide more facilities and services with state-of-the-art technology and modern design. Popular features such as Starbucks, Cross-Cultural Center and the Bowling & Games Center will remain and services such as the food court, pub, convenience store and retail services will be expanded and improved. The plan will also include more meeting and gathering space for student programs and activities.

When will construction start?

An approximate start date is Fall 2008.

Will the expansion create new student jobs?

Yes, expanded facilities and services will create more employment opportunities for students.

Will the expansion be ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant?

Absolutely, yes. The current Aztec Center is not designed to adequately serve persons with disabilities.

Why do we need a fitness center when we have the Aztec Recreation Center (ARC)?

The ARC opened in 1997 and the goal of A.S. was to enhance the quality of life for the SDSU community by providing outstanding programs, services and facilities. Use of the ARC has tripled since opening in 1997 and as the student population grows so will the use of the ARC. An estimated 800-1,000 participants would utilize an auxiliary fitness center which will provide convenience to the east side of campus and alleviate the overcrowding in the ARC.

Where will the new facility be built?

The plan is to demolish the existing building on the west side of Aztec Center, referred to as La Tienda, and build a new facility on that site. The existing Aztec Center would be renovated.

Will students be involved in the planning?

Yes! Students were involved in every aspect leading up to the March 2006 referendum. After the successful referendum, a series of student focus groups were conducted to garner additional input. A Student Union Expansion Advisory Planning Committee has been estab;ished to keep students involved and informed..

Will the current Aztec Center be open during construction?

Existing services will operate even if they have to be relocated during construction.

What will the fee cover?

The $11 per semester fee will cover building design and architectural fees and the addtional $45 per semester will pay back the construction bond and help operate the newly expanded facilities and services.

Who made the decision to expand the Student Union?

In March 2006, over 75% of SDSU students voted in favor of the expansion and the additional fee ($11 starting fall 2006, and an additional $45 starting spring 2010). The vote was certified by AS Council and then by President Weber.

Who is the architectural firm?

We have selected Perkins+Will, an award-winning firm with a strong commitment to sustainable design and expertise in higher education and student union design.

How can I get involved?

Check the Aztec Center web site (www.azteccenter.sdsu.edu) for updates and information on the Student Union Expansion Advisory Planning Committee meetings. You can also send email feedback and questions to modernspace@sdsu.edu.