Architect’s rendering of Education Village
Winona State’s campus is constantly evolving. Here are a few of the latest changes:
Pedestrian Tunnels
Fall 2017 brought the completion of the long-awaited pedestrian tunnels under the railroad tracks that bisect main campus. The University explored various options to improve the railroad crossing and increase safety for WSU students, employees and the Winona community. The two new underpasses are accessible by both stairs and a ramp on each side, and include security lighting and cameras to provide safe passage for the entire community. The tunnels officially opened in October.
Zane’s
Also in the fall, renovations to the “Smaug” in Kryzsko Commons were unveiled. The new food court includes a Panda Express and a café serving Starbucks coffee alongside longtime favorites, and incorporates Kafe Kryzsko into the space as well. The area now hosts additional seating with a lot of natural light streaming in from outside. Another change – the name. Long known as the “Smaug,” it was renamed “Zane’s” in honor of Charlie Zane ’64, who served as the student union director from 1965 to 1997. He passed away in April 2017.
Education Village
Another project in the works is Education Village, which had been awaiting funding from the state before proceeding with phase two of construction. In 2014, WSU was awarded $5.9 million from the Minnesota State Legislature for the first phase of the project, which consisted of architectural design and minor construction. The larger portion of funding was initially expected from the state’s 2016 bonding bill, but the legislature didn’t pass a bonding bill that year. The project was included in the spring 2017 bill, providing the university with $25 million for phase two of construction. With the project moving forward once again, Education Village is on track to open in fall 2019. Read what WSU College of Education Dean Tarrell Portman has to say about Education Village at wsu.mn/education-needs.
