A long-planned Lab modernization effort, the Seismic Safety and Modernization (SSM) project, requires the closure of Building 54, which houses the cafeteria and Pers Hall. The building will close on Friday, Nov. 11, 2022. Food service on the Lab’s hill site will pause temporarily, but will resume in January.

The SSM project will create a modern, flexible space to meet Berkeley Lab’s dining, health services, and conference space needs. As proposed, a new 47,743-square-foot building would create a more operationally efficient campus and a beautiful new central space where Lab employees can gather and collaborate. This new facility is projected to begin construction in November 2022 with the demolition of Building 54, with a projected completion in Fall 2026.

At this time (October 2022), we’re in the process of choosing a food service vendor. Many great restaurants in Berkeley and Oakland are easily reached from the Lab’s Blue or Orange shuttle routes.

Food service will resume in January in the parking lot next to Building 91, which was chosen because it can accommodate food trucks, seating, and provide employee safety.

The Lab will hold several interactive sessions to answer questions and explain the new food services during the project. The first of these sessions will take place on Thursday, Oct. 20 at 11 a.m.

Add the town hall to your calendar
Berkeley and Oakland restaurants on the Blue or Orange shuttle routes
SSM project construction page