At a public meeting on May 5, the Union Street Improvement Project unveiled two preliminary plans to renovate Union Street by constructing a more aesthetically pleasing streetscape. According to project planners, it will “provide a comprehensive and cohesive vision for Union Street.” There is ambiguity surrounding the plans, but according to SGPS president, Dave Thomas and Project Director, Jeanne Ma, both proposals include demolishing all or part of The Grad Club.
Neither the bar’s manager, nor its Board of Directors or the SGPS were made aware of any significant changes to the building—until the meeting. This failure to consult The Grad Club is a mark both of inconsideration and lack of knowledge about the significance of the bar to students.
Had even the most basic research been conducted in developing these proposals, project directors would have discovered that The Grad Club is an essential establishment on campus. It is a popular hangout for faculty, as well as for graduate and undergraduate students. It is also a successful live music venue.
No alternatives for relocation of the bar were suggested, which in itself would be challenging, since an intrinsic, inseparable part of The Grad Club is the building itself, and any changes to it would dramatically alter the unique atmosphere it provides.
The project directors emphasize that the creation of this streetscape would deter traffic. However, traffic at the intersection of Barrie and Union streets is not heavy enough to warrant the construction of a traffic circle and the uprooting of a well-loved establishment like The Grad Club.
In light of all the money that has already been infused into improving the aesthetics of campus—namely the Queen’s Centre—it hardly seems feasible to spend more money when existing infrastructure, such as classrooms, are in dire need of improvement.
The public meetings thus far have been held at the most inopportune time for students to voice their opinions. The first meeting fell on March 31, just before exam period began, and the May 7 meeting took place after most undergraduate students had already left for the summer.
It is imperative that concerned students voice their opposition to these ill-conceived proposals now, while plans are still in their preliminary stages. Jeanne Ma can be reached at 533-6191.
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