Last updated on June 2, 2023

In a clarification to TheSettler.online article of April 25 on the Vol State cafeteria, according to an email from April Corkin, coordinator of purchasing and contracts,

“Although (the contractors) anticipate completing the construction project in August, (Vol State) will just be starting our (request for proposal) for a vendor to run the café.

“I don’t anticipate food services from the cafeteria to be available until that process is complete. That could be as early as October, but as late as January 2024 depending on the outcome of the RFP.

“Once construction completes the area would be open for seating and such, but as far as an up and running café, that will be a bit longer.”

Cafeteria to be finished in August

By B. Mack Evans

Despite multiple setbacks, Vol States cafeteria construction should be completed in August with more seating than originally planned. 

The construction on Volunteer State Community Colleges cafeteria began last semester and the end date for students and staff to enjoy a cafeteria once again has been unknown.  

“Due to state code, we were required to upgrade the grease trap for the kitchen which caused a redesign and delay in construction… We have [also] added more group seating areas as well as lounge areas.” Explains William Newman, Senior Director of Plant Operations 

To accommodate the project’s size, the scale of the plumbing also needed to be upgraded. 

The projected image of the finished project can be seen above.

New countertops will soon be installed in the kitchen and the serving equipment will also be replaced. 

Students can also look forward to new windows for additional natural lighting and connected outdoor dining space.  

The outdoor dining space can be seen under construction on the side of the Wood Campus Center which faces the quad.  

The outdoor area will be in the shape of a circle featuring the three-star pattern from the TN state flag as the patio floor design. The space will have room for about eight tables and will border a small garden between its two entrances 

The higher seating capacity will allow space for more students to study while enjoying a snack, cup of coffee or tea.  

Snacks and fresh food from the cafeteria are expected to be a much more affordable option than the food trucks, and healthier than the nearby fast-food options many students have turned to when it’s lunchtime.