Purdue Memorial Union Reopens with New Marketplace

Monday, January 10, 2022 10:52 AM EDT Updated: Tuesday, January 11, 2022 11:56 AM EDT
By Mary Roberts, Writer/Reporter
Purdue University’s Atlas Family Marketplace, formerly known as Purdue Memorial Union, underwent a $47 million renovation. (photo courtesy of Purdue University)

Purdue University has reopened the ground floor of the Purdue Memorial Union, now known as the Atlas Family Marketplace, for the start of the spring semester. The 67,000-square-foot space underwent a $47 million renovation that includes 12 dining venues.

Purdue says the marketplace includes 200 additional indoor seats with a total seating capacity of 900. Renovations include new technology, more electrical outlets and updated, family-friendly bathrooms.

“Our thanks to the family of Bob and Judy Atlas, as well as our other generous donors, for making this remarkable renovation possible,” said Matt Folk, president of the Purdue for Life Foundation and vice president of university development and alumni engagement. “The Atlas Family Marketplace is stunning. It’s a can’t-miss destination for alumni and guests visiting campus and an incredible resource for students, faculty and staff.”

Purdue says the marketplace also features two new terraces that add 11,000 square feet of outdoor dining and collaboration space.

“The renovation of the existing space and the creation of the two new terraces was truly transformative to the Purdue Memorial Union,” said Jay Wasson, associate vice president of physical facilities. “Through this project, we not only provided more space in a key, iconic campus location, but we also provided modern amenities and increased the accessibility and vibrancy of the ground floor while highlighting the building’s history.”

The dining venues include:

  • Aatish – Halal Contemporary Kitchen
  • BBQ District
  • Boilermaker Market @ PMU
  • Chef Bill Kim’s Ramen Bar
  • Fresh Fare
  • J. Manion – Latin Inspired
  • Main Street Poké
  • Chef Bill Kim’s Pizza & Parm Shop
  • SolToro
  • Starbucks
  • Sushi Boss
  • Walk On’s Sports Bistreaux

“Throughout the renovated space you’ll find nods to Boilermaker traditions and history,” said Zane Reif, director of the Purdue Memorial Union. “From the inclusion of the limestone sign previously located at the corner of State and Grant streets to the recreation of a 1927 campus plan map, visitors will see the past featured prominently in the modernized marketplace.”

Work on the space began in 2020 and Inside INdiana Business previously reported on the project last summer.