The Outpost, one of the common eating grounds for Cal State Long Beach students, will get a complete makeover starting next summer.
The 49er Shops have decided that they need to accommodate for the larger amount of students flowing through the dining facility due to the new parking structure in Lot 11.
The plan, with an estimated cost of $4 million, is to increase the square footage from about 4,000 to between 7,000 and 8,000 square feet. This increased space will allow for more students to dine, study and shop. It will be tentatively finished by spring of 2008, according to Don Perod, the general manager of the 49er Shops, and Clint Campbell, the director of Retail and Dining Services.
A convenience store will be a new option to the building. It will not be as large as the University Bookstore, but it will have similar items that are sold in University Bookstore, according to Perod.
“For the last six months, there has been a steady complaint that it’s not big enough,” said Penrod, in reference to why they decided to make renovations to the building.
He said the employees and customers have been complaining about its size because it is difficult for students to get in and out of the area while the workers stock the building.
Perod said the 49er Shops are also considering installing wireless Internet access.
“It would be convenient for wireless Internet access to be in the Outpost so I wouldn’t have to walk all the way to Brotman Hall. I spend the majority of my time at the political science department in SSPA, so it would be nice to get a better variety of options,” said Natalie Albert, a political science major who is in favor of the new plan. “The only real place we have to get school supplies and clothing is at the bookstore, so it would definitely be beneficial to have another facility.”
While the Outpost is under construction, current employees will be able to work at other 49er Shops facilities.
There will also be more job opportunities for other students upon the completion of the building.
“It will be successful,” Penrod said.
He said the Outpost has been successful in the past and does not need any major changes to its menu. The same “grab and go” idea will still be in effect, in addition to some new items.
“I think it’s a great idea,” said Chris Zangarn, a health care administration major who visits the Outpost often. “It is small and dark, so more seating and better lighting would be really good.”
