Starbucks prepares to open on Wichita State University campus in early 2017

Coffee lovers on and off campus will have a new option as Starbucks prepares to open a full-service shop at Wichita State University.

The 2,000-square-foot building is under construction just north of WSU’s Woodman Alumni Center near 21st Street and Mike Oatman Drive.

Emily Patterson, WSU director of Facilities Planning, says she anticipates it opening in late winter or early spring.

Starbucks will be the first retail building on the Innovation Campus. Located along what will eventually be the east pedestrian mall, the shop will include a drive-thru and a large plaza with outdoor seating next to the building.

The master plan for that area also includes future restaurant and retail development, as well as a hotel on the south side of the new 19th Street along Oliver.

“We’re excited to have a Starbucks on campus,” Patterson says. “It’s going to be great for faculty, staff and students already here and will be a draw for the greater Wichita community.”