The Penn Bookstore is planning a major construction project which will entail the complete disassembly, removal and replacement of its current two escalators. The work will be done in non-contiguous phases starting in December 2017 with an anticipated completion date of February 2019. (See timeline below) 

The planned work is essential to improve the reliability and serviceability of the escalators—the original equipment manufacturer that was used in the 1999 installation has ceased operation and, as such, replacement parts are difficult to obtain and maintenance workers are less familiar with the mechanics of the particular model. 

In addition to the escalator replacement, the project also includes refurbishments to the flooring, restrooms, and fixtures and the transformation of the café to a fully-licensed Starbucks offering the complete range of coffees, to-go meal options, the ability to use the Starbucks Mobile App, and increased seating capacity. 

Recognizing the important role that the Bookstore plays in campus life, the project has been strategically planned to minimize the impact on the Penn Community. The work has been divided into four separate periods so as not to impede major University events such as Commencement and Move-In. Given the magnitude of the required work, however, there will be impacts during other activities such as Homecoming and Family Weekend. 

The Bookstore will retain its regular operating schedule for the entirety of the project. Construction barriers will allow the project to move forward while easing any disruption to the shopping experience, merchandise will be relocated from impacted areas and Bookstore staff will be ready to assist customers in finding repositioned items. The events space at the Bookstore will continue to be available. The current elevator will also remain in operation throughout the project. 

The project will necessitate some street closures which will occur during low traffic periods and work will be scheduled to limit noise to certain hours. 

The timeline is as follows:

• December 19, 2017 to early January 2018—Construction of a temporary staircase to supplement the existing passenger elevator and facilitate access to the second floor of the Bookstore while the escalators are being replaced.
• February and March 2018—Café renovation
• Mid-September 2018 to Mid-January 2019—Escalator removal and replacement
• February 2019—Removal of temporary stairs

Questions regarding this project may be directed to  bsd-info-bsd@pobox.upenn.edu