Major work will be done to the University Library and the Theatre Arts building, two projects that have been top priorities for HSU for a number of years.
“Obtaining funds for these capital projects has been in the works for some time,” said HSU Associate Vice President of Facilities Management Traci Ferdolage. “The safety of everyone on this campus is a priority. So it’s great to get the funds needed to make our structures more seismically sound in the event of an earthquake.”
According to Ferdolage, $5.44 million will go towards University Library renovations, and $7.6 million will be used for upgrades to the Theatre Arts building. In addition, a combined $2.4 million will be used to improve the energy infrastructure, such as upgrades for transformers, switches, and an electrical substation. Upgrades are also slated for the data center’s fire suppression system.
Improvements to the Library will include replacing part of the roof, relocating and permanently bracing stacks, and strengthening columns along the south side of the building. And in the Theatre Arts building, the ceiling, fly tower above the stage and theater rigging equipment will be retrofitted.
Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire alarm, and elevator system upgrades, plus other improvements to meet code requirements, will be made to both buildings. There will also be some basic renovations during the retrofitting.
A campus group has begun developing a plan for the work, with a focus on ensuring it fits with future plans for enhancing the facility. The Library project is expected to take approximately two years, from conceptualization to construction, and the design phase is expected to begin this summer. Timelines and details of the Theatre Arts project are still under discussion.
With both projects, the University will work to minimize disruptions to the academic program as much as possible.