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������Ƶ is always working to bring the best to its campus community. The former Chenango Room, which also housed Einstein Bros. Bagels, will ramp up construction as spring arrives and weather permits.

In response to student, faculty and staff feedback, the space will soon hold a Panera Bread, a second-story addition and a dedicated event space with a terrace and outdoor seating.

“The Chenango Room project will address desires articulated by our campus community, including the need for more centralized event space, the desire for a dining venue supportive of business-related meals and entertaining, and a more vibrant eatery and gathering space in the heart of campus,” said Cindy Cowden, senior associate director of Auxiliary Services. “We are excited to get major work underway. Being able to accelerate over the summer months will be critical to opening on time, as well as to limiting disruptions to the adjacent academic and office spaces during the academic year.”

These spaces are expected to be fully complete by August 2026, with Panera Bread opening that spring. Other working areas will open as work is finalized.

In the meantime, pedestrians should expect minor disruptions. Fencing will impact pedestrian paths around the project and access through the Science 1 building, and some areas will have limited access. Safety remains a top priority.

“Demolition activities may create noise and/or vibrations, Cowden said. “Safety fencing and signage will be added as needed. Facilities Management will continue to communicate project updates, changes or impacts to the campus community as they are available.”

This week, a site contractor is setting up equipment in preparation for rerouting the asphalt walk in the Science 1 courtyard. Access to the main Science 1 entrance will remain until a route is established through room 140.

Partitions in the corridor of G30 and G24 and on the first floor in corridors 100 outside restroom 116A have been created to prevent usage and direct traffic; access to stair A from these corridors will be prohibited. Access from the first floor through stair A to the courtyard will not be impacted; emergency egress will be available, and the elevator will remain available.

A shutdown of the building’s chilled water also began this week and will continue through July 30, or sooner, if work permits. Portable AC units will be provided to those inside the building.

Be aware that demolition will commence on the ground floor on April 7 and on the first floor on April 14.

“Every renovation or new addition enhances the experiences of our campus community, which positively impacts satisfaction, recruitment and retention of both students and faculty/staff,” Cowden said. “Adding new venues contributes to the desire for more sophisticated and varied options that reflect the diversity of our institution.”

Lisa Sklener, project coordinator, is available for construction-related questions at lsklener@binghamton.edu.