A large LMU Spirit Mark statue at sunset with the opening in the middle of the Spirit Mark facing out across the bluff with Los Angeles in the distance

Building a Better LMU

Explore what’s changing and when you can expect to see the results. Check back for the latest project updates and timelines.

The Lair

A mockup image showcasing a modernized look of Lair Marketplace with tables and umbrellas as students interact

Opening October 2026

The newly renovated Lair is expected to open in October, bringing a refreshed dining and gathering space to the heart of campus. When it opens, students can expect new food stations, an expanded outdoor patio along Palm Walk, refreshed interiors informed by student feedback, more natural light from new skylights, and a redesigned entrance. 

Until then, Roski Dining Hall in University Hall will serve as the location for the new all-you-care-to-eat dining model. Shuttle service will run between University Hall and upper campus from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Fridays, and 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on weekends. Students may also use dining dollars at food trucks on upper campus.

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University Hall Escalators

The three flights of escalators viewed from a high vantage point in University Hall

Coming September 2026

After more than 40 years of service, University Hall’s original escalators are being fully replaced as part of a long-anticipated project that began last spring. Students will be able to use the first set of new escalators in September, with additional escalators becoming available throughout the fall.

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Burns Recreation Center Pool

Burns Recreation Center Pool swimming lanes with LMU branding above a nearby seating area

Reopening September 11, 2026

The Burns Recreation Center pool will open with new plaster, a replaced deck, and new tile, lighting, and handrails. These improvements will refresh a major recreation and wellness space that has served the LMU community since 2000.

Parking

The entryway to University Hall

Launching September 2026

Finding parking on campus is about to get easier. LMU is launching Just Another Parking App (JAPA), a new mobile app designed to help students, faculty, staff, and visitors quickly identify available parking spaces across campus. The app provides real-time parking availability information, reducing the time spent searching for a spot and helping improve traffic flow throughout LMU's campus. JAPA is expected to launch in September and is currently offering internships for LMU students on Handshake in business and entrepreneurship; marketing communications; and technology and innovation.

Sacred Heart Chapel

Front view of Sacred Heart Chapel from Sunken Garden

Finishing September 2026

Exterior improvements include replacing the entry stairs, the concrete and drive approach area, added accessibility improvements including a ramp near the altar and a lift providing basement access.

LMU Bluff Letters

A view looking across the bluff toward the ocean with the Leavey Apartments visible

Returning Fall 2026 - Ahead of Schedule

The LMU letters overlooking the bluff are expected to return this fall, well ahead of the university’s anticipated timeline. The letters were removed in 2024 as part of a larger project to stabilize the hillside following significant erosion and storm damage. Their return will restore a familiar campus landmark that has been part of LMU’s Westchester campus for generations. Weather permitting, the letters will be installed this fall.

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OneCard Door Access

Aerial view of the northwest corner of Palm South

Multi-Year Project

Palm South and Doheny residence halls received residence hall access upgraded access control hardware in summer 2026. This is part of a project to modernize residence hall entry, improving safety and convenience.

LMU Bookstore Hello Kitty x LMU Collection

A table at the LMU bookstore showcasing a variety of Hello Kitty branded merchandise

Expanded Fall 2026

The LMU Bookstore expanded its popular Hello Kitty collection with two new styles for the 2026–27 academic year. The growing assortment reflects LMU’s continued focus on creating fresh, relevant merchandise that connects with students and fans.

Recently Completed Projects

Classroom and Technology Upgrades

Completed Summer 2026

Classrooms and event spaces received new audio/visual technology, and five computer labs were equipped with new computers. Students also gained access to digital learning tools including Microsoft Copilot, LMU’s AI chat solution with enterprise data protection, and LinkedIn Learning, offering thousands of expert-led courses for academic and career development.

LMU Children’s Center

Completed Summer 2026

The LMU Children’s Center received repairs and site improvements, including upgrades to drainage, sidewalks, plumbing, flooring, landscaping, and fencing.

LMU Bookstore

Completed Summer 2026

LMU bookstore began offering a concierge summer dorm-essentials delivery service.

Gersten Pavilion and Hannon Apartment Roofs

Completed Summer 2026

Gersten Pavilion and Hannon Apartments received new roofs this summer, as part of ongoing campus maintenance.

Gersten Pavilion Exterior Waterproofing

Completed Summer 2026

Installed a waterproofing coating to the exterior of Gersten’s concrete facade.

LMU Loyola Law School Branding

Completed Summer 2026

Fabricated and installed new branding signage to building exteriors.

Campus Storm Drainage

Completed Summer 2026

LMU installed new storm drain piping, catch basins, and manholes to divert roughly 35% of our storm water lines to the South of Westchester campus to improve campus drainage and mitigate water intrusion concerns.

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