Walker Hall dorm is receiving complete plumbing renovations to fix the reoccurring leaks in the pipes.
Students living in B hall on all seven floors of the building are being relocated to other rooms. The renovation affects about 50 students, said Kevin Culbertson, coordinator of housing operations.
The renovations will begin on Jan. 11 as facilities workers start tearing walls down to reach the pipes. Mark Clouse, director of facilities, said they will hire an outside contractor to replace the pipes and rebuild the walls. After they have completed B hall of the dorm, workers will start on A hall, moving those residents into B hall. Residents living in B hall will stay where they were relocated.
The renovations on B hall are expected to be complete by Spring Break 2016.
Clouse said facilities has budgeted about $125,000 to complete the project for A and B hall.
“We wanted to do it now so that when it is complete the residents can tell the difference,” Clouse said. “This is one of those building that never really shuts down so there is never really a perfect time for it but the renovation is something that needs to be done.”
Walker Hall was built in 1966. The plumbing of the building has never been replaced, Clouse said.
“B hall is where we have the most issues with leaks so that is why we chose to start on that side,” Clouse said. “It is a big project that will take some time but it is our hope that the dorm will have a better living experience once this is done.”
One student is happy about the renovations but frustrated about the move.
“I just wish they would have told us sooner,” said Joey Ursisni, political science freshman. “With finals next week I don’t want to have to be packing up my stuff while trying to study. But I am happy that they recognize the problem are working to fix it.”
Correction: Walker Hall dormitory was built in 1966.
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