2011 is bringing big changes to a portion of Welch Hall. The east half of the wing of the building that was constructed in 1929 is undergoing a major renovation. The project involves a full replacement of old heating and air conditioning units and utility lines, all of which have run well past their life spans. Also included are significant changes in floor plans for new teaching, research and computer labs as well as a dedicated third floor office space for theoretical and physical chemistry faculty.
Before the actual renovation work could begin, several research groups, departmental facilities, teaching labs and offices had to be relocated to clear the space for the project. Graduate and undergraduate students, faculty, and staff all pitched in to complete this very significant part of the project in time for the January start of renovations.
During construction, the second floor Mallet Library, Machine and Glass Shops have remained open in spite of the noise and detours required to access their locations.
The Beck Group is the general contractor for the project which is tied to the recently opened Norman Hackerman Building across 24th street from Welch Hall. The $10 million project is scheduled for completion in Spring 2012 semester and once done, will showcase some nicely updated spaces with a nod to some of the original architectural features present in one of the oldest buildings on campus.
