Updates on construction projects around campus

Here’s a quick update on some construction projects around campus:

The Sculpture Yard in the Humanities Building is nearly completed. Known as the West Art Yard, there are welding/ceramics storage areas, furnace area, welding and forge areas and ceramic kilns area.

An eye-catching mural, designed by art instructor Brian “Cat” Taylor, and painted by six Maymester art students, has transformed the courtyard on the backside of the Humanities building from concrete to excitement. The mural is a social realism piece that portrays the working class as heroes. Each character on the mural is a different type of metalworker.

The outdoor enclosure area (Humanities Exterior Canopy) is the final portion of the project. Construction of the canopy should begin Nov. 23 and be completed by Feb. 19, 2016.

Singleton Building renovation

Renovation for the Singleton Building, the oldest building on campus, has started and will include replacement of HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems along with an elevator installation, ADA upgrades, asbestos removal and interior refurbishment.

Construction began Sept. 21, with substantial completion estimated for June 27, 2016, and final completion estimated for July 28, 2016.

Asbestos abatement began Aug. 10, but by Sept. 8, additional asbestos-containing materials were uncovered. Now the asbestos has been successfully removed, according to Rein Mungo, interim director of facilities, planning and management.

As of Sept. 28, safety fencing has been installed, and demolition is well underway. Sheetrock, block walls and ceilings have been demo’d on the second floor.

The architect for the project is Stubbs Muldrow Herin, Architects and DWG. General contractor is Metcon.

Science Annex II

Coming right along is the construction, design and programming of the 71,150-square-foot Science Annex II building adjacent to the Smith and Swain Science Buildings.

Construction started Aug. 19, 2014, and estimated substantial completion is March 25, 2016. Final completion is estimated for April 28, 2016.

Currently, the building entry glazing installation continues, along with chill water mechanical room equipment installation. The standpipe and domestic water pumps are being installed. Drywall finishing and prime paint continues on the first and second floor. Drywall has been stocked for the third floor. Mechanical, plumbing, electrical and fire protection inspections continue on the third floor. Partial testing of airducts on the second and third floors was approved by the Chapter One Inspector. Air handling and ventilation equipment installation in the mezzanine continues.

Brickwork continues on the courtyard side of the building, and window installation is underway. The first floor is being prepped to begin lab equipment casework. Work is underway on getting the elevator operational. Ceiling grid installation has started on the first floor.

The architect is LS3P Associates LTD; contractor is Contract Construction Inc.

The Humanities 255 renovation into a digital production studio was completed on Sept. 28.