By CASSIE SLANA
Reporter

(WARRENSBURG, Mo., digitalBURG) — Steak ‘n Shake will be coming to the Elliott Student Union in the fall.

With Steak ‘n Shake’s extended hours, UCM President Chuck Ambrose said university staff is working to create a late-night atmosphere around the Union Bowling Center. Since Chick-fil-A is closed on Sundays and has limited hours, the restaurant will move downstairs to the food court. Chick-fil-A will take Burger King’s place in the Union, and Burger King will no longer be an option on campus.

Jim Halcombe, Sodexo resident district manager, said the renovations will enhance the atmosphere of the Union for UCM students.

“We knew that we wanted something recognizable, and Steak ‘n Shake has a value driven menu, so that will appeal to the customer,” Halcombe said.

Construction is scheduled to begin June 1, with an expected completion date of Aug. 1. Students should be able to patronize the restaurant as early as fall 2016.

Halcombe said Sodexo entered into a partnership with Steak ‘n Shake last year, making the on-campus location a full franchise with extended hours that even include its breakfast menu.

Patrick Bradley, senior director of university housing and residential dining services, said Sodexo and the Union will fund the approximately $700,000 project.

Halcombe said the project includes minor renovations to the area that will house Steak ‘n Shake, changing out the furniture and adding more seating.

Shelby Cook, freshman international studies major, said she is eager for a larger selection of on-campus dining options that have extended hours.

“I’m really excited about having possibly more late-night options, because, let’s be real, everybody’s awake on campus,” Cook said.

Adding Steak ‘n Shake is part of the Elliott Student Union Master Plan, which involves many renovations and improvements to the Union. Ambrose isn’t necessarily excited about the addition, however.

“I have a genetic disposition for bad cholesterol,” he said.