Lion Shrine Access to be Restricted Starting May 6

Penn State’s Nittany Lion Shrine is due for a make-over. Construction crews will go to work  immediately after spring commencement ceremonies. That will mean temporary restrictions limiting access to the shrine and the surrounding area. Workers will be adding landscaping and improved lighting. The project will also make the shrine more accessible.

The re-design is tentatively scheduled to begin May 6. The project should be finished by the first week of September, according to Penn State’s Office of Physical Plant. However, several factors, including weather, could affect that timeline. The shrine will be accessible to visitors during the week of Aug. 5-11  to accommodate summer commencement.

Penn State’s class of 2012 voted to enhance the area surrounding the statue as its senior gift.

Penn State says renovations will also include much-needed repairs to the statue’s base. An interpretive historical display will be installed near the shrine with information about the statue’s origins and its sculptor, Heinz Warneke. The shrine is a favorite stop for students and alumni. Penn State says it’s the most photographed spot on campus. The Nittany Lion Shrine is a gift of the class of 1940.

Check out Centre County Report’s video report on the renovations.