A Legacy Worth Investing In
Since opening its doors in 1968-1969, the Carolina Union has stood as a hub of campus life – a gathering place for students, staff, and the broader University community to connect, collaborate, and cultivate memories. Over the decades, the building has evolved to meet the changing needs of the Carolina community, including additions like the East Wing. Now, it’s once again time for an upgrade. As we continue investing in the Union’s programs and services, we’re also investing in its physical home. Sometimes that means enhancing the spaces you see every day – and sometimes it means addressing what’s right above your head. This roof project is an important step in ensuring the Union remains a safe, sustainable, and welcoming space for generations of Tar Heels to come.
Project Timeline
Construction is currently scheduled to run through the end of the fall semester. There is a possibility that the scope will expand to include upgraded solar panels, which could extend the timeline into the spring semester. We’ll share updates here as the schedule is confirmed.
What to Expect
Noise & Odors
Construction activity may cause noise and, at times, odors – particularly in the Great Hall and the third floor (3100s and 3200s). Most disruptive work is expected to occur during morning hours.
9/15/26 Update Contractors will begin removing the skylights above the West Lounge. Small debris is possible. Once the skylights have been removed the holes will be covered and weather proofed. This will result in it being noticeably darker in the West Lunge during the day. There will be noise and other sensory distractions throughout this process.
Service Lot Closure
The Service Lot at the corner of Raleigh St and South Rd will be offline for the duration of construction to accommodate equipment staging.
Safety Fencing
Safety panels will be installed around the North Wing for the duration of the project. Pedestrian access tunnels will remain open through the fencing at all major entrances and exits in the North Wing, so building access will be maintained throughout construction.
CUBEs Offline
The CUBEs will be offline for the duration of the project. In the meantime, student organizations can use digital signage at the Union at a reduced rate of $15 – the same rate as the CUBE paint cart. Learn more and submit a request here.
Updated Evacuation Routes
Due to the safety fencing around the North Wing, some evacuation routes have changed – most notably on the second and third floors near the Gift Plaza. Updated evacuation maps are below. All other evacuation routes remain largely the same as before.
Questions?
If you have questions about how this project may affect your space or event in the Union, please contact carolinaunion@unc.edu.