Frequently Asked Questions: General Project FAQ

 

What will the new Talley Student Center add to NC State University?
The renovation and addition will help us achieve many goals associated with student life on the NC State campus:

• Student Centered: The new Talley will focus on and be propelled by student needs and wants. It will facilitate a high-quality student life experience.
• Campus Community: It will promote and build a campus community with a center for student life that invigorates and invites participation and growth. It will become the center of campus life at NC State.
• NC State Spirit & History: The building design will embrace the spirit, image, and character of North Carolina State University as well as engender pride of place among members of the community.
• Campus Context/ Master Plan: The site plan will comply with the University Physical Master Plan by serving as the crossroads of central campus. It will provide easy access from public transit, parking decks, and pedestrian paths and gather people from all directions. It will also receive a future pedestrian bridge across the railroad tracks to north campus and accommodate a possible future connection to an elevated people-mover system.
• Site Design/ Landscape: The site design will integrate interior and exterior spaces and accommodate a generous, landscaped and hardscaped space for a variety of activities.
• Exterior Architectural Image: It will establish the Talley Student Center as a new campus landmark that is attractive, exciting, and dynamic, yet respectfully contextual toward the existing campus character.
• Interior Design/ Image: The interior will capture and express the feeling, ambiance, and emotional impressions that define North Carolina State University.
• Interior and Exterior: The design will emphasize flexibility, adaptability, and transformability that serves a multiplicity of needs, provides a variety of spaces and allows for future changes.
• Campus Services/ Programs: This environment will promote various activities, programs, and experiences to meet student needs, bolster student camaraderie and encourage interaction.
• Technology: State-of-the-art technology infrastructure and equipment will be integrated throughout the building.
• Sustainability: The architecture will express and showcase sustainable features, to generate interest in sustainable design and will achieve a USGBC LEED Silver Rating or higher.
• Security: The building will provide a safe environment through zoned levels of access depending on the time of day with an easily managed security system

How is the project being funded, and what is the estimated total cost?
The entire project is expected to cost $120 million. It will be funded through a combination of student fees; retail rent revenue and other sources of funding.

• Student Fees: The debt service fee, which went into effect in 2010, will go toward the cost of construction. The approved student fee, (like the building project), is phased over the next few years and is capped at $290 per year, which translates to eighty cents per day, per student. View the debt-service fee chart >
• Retail Rental Revenue: Food service, the bookstore, and other retailers will pay rent for their respective spaces, which will contribute to debt service and operational costs.
• Other Sources: All efforts to identify additional sources of funding for the project, especially charitable gifts, will be pursued. Success in such efforts may enable the debt service fees to be reduced, dependent upon cash flow of these alternative revenue sources.

What is the construction schedule?
The projected completion is late 2014. Detailed timeline >

How much bigger will the new Talley be?
Built in 1972, the current facility was built for a student population of 14,000. The current facility is approximately 98,000 assignable square feet (169,000 gross). The new facility will be approximately 164,000 assignable square feet (283,000 gross), better accommodating our current student population of approximately 32,000 and allowing for expected growth.

What will we find in the new Talley?

• An expanded foodservice operation: Talley will feature a flagship cafeteria-style dining room, a food court that can stay open late, and expanded C-Store. Emphasis will be placed on providing student favorites as well as incorporating new and healthy options such as organic foods, sustainable foods, and expanded vegan and vegetarian choices.
• Significantly more lounge and recreational areas: Whether it is a place to rest and recharge between classes for commuter students, or to gather for a late night study session, the new Talley will have attractive and comfortable lounge spaces. A variety of settings and furnishings will range from quiet nooks for relaxation to vibrant gathering spots for socializing. Wi-Fi access and plentiful outlets make these spaces convenient and functional for both groups and individuals.
• Student-focused retail and services: Retail spaces will provide students with services not available on campus. Possibilities include a staffed copy center, shipping and packaging center, and bank. Flexibility will be built into the design so that retail can change and adapt to student needs.
• A larger, more flexible ballroom: The new ballroom will be twice as large as the current ballroom and will have the ability to be subdivided into five separate sections, accommodating a variety of meetings and entertainment needs. The ballroom will be equipped with A/V technology, allowing presentations to groups of up to approximately 1,000 people.
• An expanded bookstore operation: In addition to expanded apparel offerings, the new bookstore will feature a coffee shop and light dining area. A digital print-on-demand area will have the capability to print and bind library-quality trade books, textbooks, and course packs in-house. An updated computer department, similar to an Apple Store, will offer full customer support services.
• Increased and improved space for student organizations: Spaces for student organizations to accomplish tasks such as creating publicity for an event, organizing and assembling projects, and holding collaborative meetings will be a top priority in the new Talley. Increased interaction among student organizations will facilitate collaborative efforts.
• More meeting space: The new Talley will feature twice as much meeting space as it currently has. Meeting rooms will range from small rooms (accommodating 15 people) to large rooms (accommodating 100 people or more). Rooms will be equipped with A/V technology, making them ideal for presentations.
• More space for student organizations and facility services: Student Organizations and Facilities will be housed in the new Talley, and will include Student Government, the Union Activities Board, the Student Senate, Student Union Administration and Facilities Management—including Events Management, Facilities, housekeeping, and storage

Will there be new dining options?
Yes. Cini•Little International, Inc. was retained by Duda Paine Architects to conduct a food preference survey at North Carolina State University (NCSU) to assist in defining the program for the new Talley Student Center. The survey was prepared with the input of NC State University Dining leaders, project managers and student government members. The survey was opened on December 2, 2009 and closed on February 2, 2010. Survey responses totaled 984.
Talley will feature a flagship cafeteria-style dining room, a food court that can stay open late, and expanded C-Store. Emphasis will be placed on providing student favorites as well as incorporating new options such as organic foods, sustainable foods, and expanded vegan and vegetarian choices.
What happened to the old bookstore?
The old bookstore was demolished in Summer 2011 to provide an enlarged green space for student recreation and relaxation. A section of the new addition and underground loading dock will also occupy a portion of the bookstore footprint. A new, expanded bookstore will be incorporated into the new construction of the student center. A temporary Bookstore opened June 6, 2011 in a space constructed on the ground level of Harrelson Hall to provide uninterrupted service during the Talley Renovation project.
What happened to trees at Talley?
We have met on this subject with the University Arborist, Landscape Architect, and several of the Grounds Management folks responsible for maintaining these trees, which are approximately 40 years old or younger. Given the project design parameters for the amount of increased square footage needed in the building and the size of the proposed Great Lawn outdoor activity area and rain gardens needed for storm water management, the following action was taken:

• 1. The very large Oak and Magnolia trees just west of Reynolds Coliseum will be saved, but the rest will be removed shortly.
• 2. Several of the smaller Japanese Maples have been replanted on campus. The larger Japanese Maples were too large/mature to transplant successfully and were removed.
• 3. An architecture class worked with facilities to move a number of plantings to another area of campus.
• 3. The landscape plan has not been finalized yet, but we are in process of keeping an inventory of trees that are being demolished so that we ensure that we put back the same number of trees for this project and/or supplement other areas on campus that need trees.

How will construction affect Reynolds Coliseum and Price Music Center?
Neither of these buildings will be renovated as part of this project, however, construction will undoubtedly necessitate changes in some pedestrian and vehicular circulation near Talley. Some paths may be temporarily closed or re-routed during construction. More details about exactly what will be affected will be developed as project phasing is defined. The new Talley's architectural features will complement Reynolds, and be contextually sensitive to Talley's site.
Will the Gregg Museum remain in Talley?
No. The Gregg Museum will be relocated outside of Talley to allow for the Museum's long-range growth goals to be met. Project funds will contribute to its relocation. However, Gregg Museum art will be displayed throughout Talley. More information about the Gregg Muesum relocation
How will the exterior of Talley Student Center be affected by the renovation?
The new integration of exterior and interior spaces will draw people into the building. This cross-roads theme also serves as a hub for numerous activities and is an important element in making the student center become a destination for students, faculty, and the greater community to return again and again.

• Hearth Development: A new hardscaped and landscaped courtyard will promote outdoor activities as well as a natural gathering place.
• Pedestrian Connectors: The courtyard and new building entries will provide pedestrian connections from the east-west All Campus Path to the crossroads with the north-south path inside the building. The southeast Reynolds service court will be redesigned as a plaza, performing double duty for some service and an aesthetic view shed focal point from Morrill Drive.
• Transportation: A future pedestrian bridge from Broughton to Talley will be constructed when Broughton is renovated. This bridge will complement the proposed transit hub and transit stop in the future. Additional bike racks and possible bike storage will be part of the project.

How is Stewart Theatre affected during construction?
The theatre will remain in its current location and only temporarily be closed during construction. Stewart Theatre will remain because of the building's historic and functional significance to NC State. While the theatre may receive some finish upgrades, the primary intention of renovating this space will be to redress code deficiencies.
When were the current buildings that comprise Talley Student Center constructed?

• Talley Center and Stewart Theater Building:
• Constructed in 1972, this four-story building is approximately 169,000 square feet.
• Price Music Building:
• Constructed in 1972 and located west of the Stewart Theater, this two-story building is approximately 23,500 square feet.
• Student Bookstore:
• Constructed in 1959 with an addition built in 1990 and located north of the Price Music Building, it houses approximately 41,000 square feet.
• Gregg Museum:
• Constructed in 1991 onto the south face of the Talley Center Building, this four-story addition is approximately 21,500 square feet.

What will happen to organizations in Talley during construction?
Duda/Paine Architects has produced an initial phasing strategy that includes two general phases. This phasing sequence takes into account departmental programs within the existing Talley Student Center and the University Bookstore that need to remain in operation during the construction period. Most organizations are moving to Harrelson Hall to ensure continuous access and service for students. Access the current move schedule here.
Will surrounding buildings remain open during construction?
There are several surrounding buildings whose operations may be influenced by the construction process. The Price Music Center may require some amount of program relocation. Alexander Hall and Reynolds Coliseum operation will not require departmental program relocations.
What technology will be available?
The new Talley strives to be a model for cutting-edge technology on campus. A/V technology will be provided in large meeting rooms. Wi-fi coverage will be widespread throughout the building.
What are the projected operating hours of the new Talley?
The new Talley is being designed with late night zoning in mind. Other areas will have varying degrees of access depending on their needs. The normal operational hours of the new Talley will be determined closer to the time of the facility opening.
Will the new Talley be a sustainable building?
Yes. The Talley Student Center will be a model of environmental, social and economic sustainability. The project will actively advance the University's commitment to state and national sustainability leadership in promoting and practicing the following principles throughout the life of the building and site:

• Education: The building design will showcase sustainable features to educates and involve building occupants in conservation of natural resources and reduction of energy consumption.
• LEED Silver Certification: The building will achieve a minimum rating of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver certification and will strive to achieve higher. The University has mandated that all major construction projects be LEED Silver certified through the US Green Building Council, and the new Talley will be no exception. This certification sets sustainability standards for things such as water usage, materials used in construction, indoor environmental quality, and innovation of design.
• Sustainabliity Goals through Design Process: The design team will undertake an effective and inclusive integrated design process at design conception and will continue this throughout design development. Proper construction practices will be followed to achieve these sustainability goals.
• Life Cycle Costs: Building materials, openings, orientation, and plumbing, mechanical and electrical equipment are considered in the life cycle cost analysis for the best value over time regarding first costs, maintenance and repair costs, and energy and natural resource consumption.
• Energy Efficiency Goals: Building occupants' health and comfort are priorities that are balanced with energy efficiency goals of the State Energy Efficient Buildings and LEED requirements.
• Reduction of Greenhouses Gases: Campus-wide efforts to significantly reduce greenhouse gases through efficiencies of central cooling and heating systems, alternative and public transportation measures, maximizing energy efficiency and consideration of on-site renewable energy will be implemented.
• Energy Management: Energy management operational processes such as energy modeling, optimizing operating schedules and segregating building zones will be used to maximize energy performance.
• Innovative Technology: Innovative technology that promotes energy efficiency and reduces negative impacts to the environment will be considered using best management practices for life cycle cost analyses.
• Building Site Components and Systems: Independent, third party commissioning agents will review the design for the best approach and will verify the performance of building and site components and systems to ensure that the design requirements are met and equipment and controls are functioning properly.
• Measurement and verification Process: Independent third party commissioning agents will also implement a measurement and verification process that monitors building performance a year after construction completion. Building meters and controls will continue to be monitored throughout the life of the building to assess when adjustments to the operating systems should be made to continue optimal performance.
• Long-term Planning: This includes long-term efficient use of space and infrastructure by designing for flexibility of future uses, maximizing space utilization and designing public spaces for community use.
• Building Commitments: Commits each major building group (University Dining, Bookstore, student groups) to identify and integrate business operations that maximize sustainability goals.

Will Talley use LED lighting like Bragaw dorm and Dan Allen parking deck?
We may use some LED lighting, but the first costs are significantly greater and it is typically of a Kelvin degree temperature (bluish-white color) better suited for outdoor use than indoor for this type of building. The ambience is so important in a student center with dining and lounge space that lighting plays a very important role in setting the right mood(s) and making food look appetizing. In any case, the newer light fixtures that will be specified will be more efficient than what is currently in the existing Talley, even if the Kelvin degree temperature doesn't change. The lighting plan is still under development by our design team and we will have more specific info later in the design process.
Are you exploring any other sustainable systems?
Yes. Various additional sustainable systems will be explored including the following:

• Utilize new technology to generate electricity from the conversion of high-pressure steam to low pressure steam at the entry to the building.
• Collect the site and building roof drainage and use for irrigation on site.
• Use green roof systems to reduce the overall storm water volume and improve storm-water quality while also reducing the heat island effect.
• Utilize roof areas for solar arrays to generate electricity or heat water.

Will the new Talley be secure?   
Yes. Talley will provide a safe environment for building users through easily manageable security systems. It will ensure a safe and secure communal atmosphere at all hours of the day and night through building zoning and controlled access to secure zones after hours.
Will the renovation construction greatly affect me?
The Talley construction schedule was designed to minimize disruptions to campus life and operations through careful coordination among the design team, construction team, campus facilities group and other campus stakeholders. The construction sequencing and phasing has been incorporated in a way that expedites the construction schedule and minimizes operational disruptions.
Will I receive important updates throughout the construction period?    
Yes. We have assembled a team of students and staff from Campus Enterprises, Communication Services, Student Affairs, Student Government, and Transportation to ensure the campus community is well informed. You can always visit this web site to stay informed, as well. We provide weekly construction updates as well as use facebook and twitter to keep people informed.
Are students involved in the project? How can I share my ideas?
Student input began with student surveys conducted by Cini•Little as well as direct input from student leaders and others who showed an interest in getting involved with the process. Plans have also been made based on successful student-center projects at colleges and universities across the country. Students have been integral throughout the process. See HERE for ways in which they have been involved.

Updated: May 4, 2012