The University is currently removing asbestos insulation from the steam tunnels that run under campus. The construction won’t be completed until March 2015, said Bill Lowery, the cogeneration systems manager. There will also be additional vents added to the tunnels as well as improvements to the supporting structure for underground pipes.
“It is one of those unfortunate realities that we all live with, that to be able to provide the level of service that we do on this campus and the quality environment for a great education, we must occasionally disturb areas to maintain and care for them,” Lowery said in an email.
The paths to some buildings have been blocked because temporary fencing has been placed around the construction, but there are signs indicating detours. Lowery stressed all buildings are still open.
“This project is not preventing access to any campus buildings,” he said. “The project does have some sidewalk and building access point detours that are in place for the safety of the students, the public and for our construction team, but all facilities will remain accessible for use.”
The construction will cost the University nearly $5 million, according to a document from Susan Hudson, a spokeswoman for the University.
Lowery said the asbestos insulation has been in the steam tunnels since their construction in the early 1940s.
Some students aren’t excited about the prospect of a semester and a half of construction, but realize it is something the University had to do.
“I know a lot of old stuff was built with asbestos before they knew the health effects, but, I mean, it is a shame it has been there as long as it has,” junior Chichi Orji said. “You know as long as they’re getting rid of it, it’s fine.”
