This week, the college made preparations for the summer’s renovations. To clear room for construction equipment, construction crews tore down a garage on the corner of Galloway Drive and West Street.
The extensive renovations to Simpson Residence necessitate space for large construction crews. The update of Simpson is the first of many changes initiated by the Rebirth of Liberty and Learning capital campaign.
“If students could avoid parking in that parking lot for a couple of weeks, it would be much appreciated,” Bill Whorley, director of security said. “Security would give them all a big hug.”
All construction on Simpson will take place during the summer.
“We have three months to do an enormous amount of work,” Chief Administrative Officer Rich Péwé said.
The improvements on Simpson are more than a facelift — the plans have a $3.4 million budget. The college intends for an extensive update on every part of the residence.
First, Simpson’s current flat roof will be replaced by a pitched roof. Columns will stand near the entrance of the building in an effort to match the facade of the planned Searle Center.
The renovations of Simpson also include demolition of the first four rooms on the ground floor. In their place will stand a common area that includes a kitchen and a common space.
“The idea, eventually, is to have a patio in the courtyard,” Péwé said.
The common areas would lead into the proposed patio.
The rooms will also look completely different. Many changes are planned, including the replacement of old carpeting with vinyl wood floors, new sinks and vanities, and tiled showers.
The hallways will also receive an update. New lighting will illuminate corridors and rooms following an upgrade of Simpson’s electrical system. The halls will also have new carpeting.
“The rooms will be great for freshmen and sophomores,” Péwé said.
