DENTON (UNT), Texas -- Meal plan sales at the University of North Texas have gone up 35 percent over the last four years. UNT Dining Services is adapting to the growth with renovations to Bruce and Clark dining halls, and the addition of a new coffee retail location in UNT’s General Academic Building.

“Our best ideas come from listening to our students - that has been the driver behind the changes we are making and the success we have had in creating a world class food service operation,” said Ken Botts, manager of special projects for UNT Dining Services.

Meal plan sales have gone up because the great value, variety and quality UNT Dining Services offers the UNT community, Botts said. Students with a traditional meal plan pay less than $3 per meal, which is cheaper than eating out or shopping, Botts said. Faculty and staff meal plan sales have also increased for the same reason.

The first Caribou Coffee “We proudly brew” location to open in Texas is scheduled to open by the start of the fall 2013 semester in UNT’s General Academic Building, located at the corner of Avenue B and West Mulberry Street.

Bruce Hall’s dining area, which is one of the busiest dining locations on campus, can currently hold about 430 people at capacity. The dining area is being renovated to expand that capacity to 664, adding space for more than 200 people, said Peter Balabuch, associate director of resident dining.

“Bruce has always been a very busy location, being so close to all the academic buildings,” Balabuch said. “It is extremely busy. These renovations will add a large seating area to make room for more people.”

The renovation will include expanded seating, a covered patio and a new dining hall entryway. Construction is expected to be complete by the start of the fall 2013 semester.

Clark Hall’s dining area is being renovated and will become the central bakery for all UNT dining locations. The renovated space is expected to be open and running by the start of the fall 2013 semester.