It’s taking shape—the new UTC Library is rising skyward, forming “information commons” on the third floor, the circulation desk and new books on the main floor, and the stacks and collections below. During the construction process, the University continues to strive for gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design or LEED certification, an internationally-recognized green building certification system.
“Construction waste is segregated into four dumpsters holding paper waste, stone and concrete, lumber and plastics,” according to Janet Spraker, Director, UTC Facilities Engineering.
Spraker added that storm water will be reused at the library. She is hopeful the building will be completed by spring semester 2013, move in will be in the summer and the new library will be functional by fall 2013.
Stagmaier housing—students will have new digs in a restored building. Approximately 140 new beds will be available in Stagmaier, including ADA suites with accessible restrooms and doorways.
Metro Renovation, Phase II—plans are progressing to gut the interior of the east portion of the Metro building. By spring semester 2013, new labs and classrooms for Health and Human Performance and an athletic training lab will be available. Spraker explains there is a plan to skin the building. There will be new windows, a brick veneer, and hopefully a tower element to establish another entryway to campus at Houston Street and McCallie Avenue.
Chamberlain Pavilion, Baldwin pedestrian mall—this project is being finalized. The $2.3 million project has a target date of spring 2012 to begin construction. Spraker calls the plans “transformative” for campus. Look for a circuitous sidewalk to soften that brutal walk up the hill from Vine Street to Oak Street.
Bretske Hall—formerly the home of the Geology department, this building, constructed in the early 1900s and used as a cafeteria until the 1960s and 1970s, will be the spot for campus artists. Painting, drawing classrooms and a few offices are in the plans. Special feature: a wall of glass!
Hunter Hall—this building will soon be better insulated with new windows. Spraker calls the installation of new windows in Hunter and Grote Halls and the restoration of the Patten House “among the best uses of the stimulus money” appropriated to the University.
