Student Center projected completion delayed by heavy rains

The Student Center construction has a new anticipated completion date of January 2020 after heavy and consistent rainfall has delayed the original schedule, according to Vice President of Student Affairs Tim Young.

The university announced its prioritization campaign last spring with an initial completion date of August 2019. After an initial setback due to the need for an open cafeteria during the process, construction officially moved forward this fall. However, a wet winter has led to further complications.

“We have had 35 days of inclement weather. We weren’t expecting such terrible weather conditions, so it really has made it difficult,” Young said.

Though students have speculated about issues concerning the progress of the construction site, Young assured students that the job is being progressing, with concrete first being laid on Feb. 12 and March 1.

“I’m excited about our team and the contractors. I think they’re great and are using really innovative technology to make up for lost time due to the weather,” Young said.

As construction progresses, there will be an approximate two to three utility shutdowns; however, the university is working to keep them as minimal as possible.

“Our contractor is really cognizant of the student experience, and the reality is that we want to know student impact,” Young said.

With Vanguard’s master plan finally being approved at a city council meeting on Feb. 2, students can expect to see some changes on campus within the next few years, Young said.

“We are beginning to operationalize the plan for future buildings. We also have plans for utilities and drainage. We’ve hired someone to prepare to build out our master plan,” Young said.

Young explained as the construction progresses, he is hoping to coordinate student tours of the construction site. Currently, he is talking with SGA and its president, Chris Moore, to arrange monthly tours.

Though some upperclassmen must deal with construction without seeing the final product, Young explains it will still be worth it to graduates as well as current students.

“It adds value to your degree. It’s a sign that your institution is growing and expanding,” Young said.