UA survey: Students want diner, supermarket near campus

Administrators say they will incorporate the student input into the context of penn's master plan for retail development. If students had their druthers, the University would bring a 24-hour diner, a supermarket, more clothing stores and more blue light phones to campus. An Undergraduate Assembly survey of 267 random students revealed these priorities -- but administrators emphasized that they must consider many factors when translating those ideas into reality. Executive Vice President John Fry greeted the survey's results enthusiastically, but noted that they must be dealt with in the context of the University's master plan for retail development. "We have to make sure we can get the right deal and attract a first-class operator," he said. "Whatever we do, we want to make sure we do it right." According to the poll's results, 97 percent of those surveyed wanted a 24-hour diner close to campus. UA member and Engineering junior John Seitz, who helped write the survey, said the response surprised him. "I anticipated that a majority of students would want a diner, but I didn't expect the consensus to be so overwhelming," he said. Half the students surveyed said they wanted a cashless diner, and the vast majority indicated that they would go to the diner at least once a week. Meal Contract Coordinator Adam Sherr said he thought the University would at least consider the proposal. "Anything 97 percent of the students want will be looked into," he added. "We try to respond to student input." Sherr noted that Chats was created in response to student suggestions, adding that a similar late-night cafe will likely open in McClelland Hall next year. The survey also asked students what stores they would like to see near campus. Most requested a supermarket, while others asked for Banana Republic, J. Crew, and Victoria's Secret. The survey also found that 85 percent of students surveyed believe safety around campus needs improvement. The most frequent request was for more blue-light phones, particularly on Spruce and Pine Streets. UA Chairperson and College junior Tal Golomb called the survey findings preliminary, adding that the UA plans further research to determine other student interests, like the entertainment options they would like around campus. "We need more information, for our own sake and so the administration can know what the students want," he said.