WSU transitions into next phase of construction across various campuses

From staff reports

A new round of major capital projects on campus is underway as almost all prior construction projects have reached completion in 2015.

Washington State University’s Capital Facilities service, which oversees projects from sidewalk paving to stadium overhauls, has released figures for upcoming facility projects which include demolition, renovation and construction of new facilities around the state.

The most recent major project completion came at the start of the semester in the dedication of Global Scholars residence hall near Northside. The Paccar Environmental Technology Building followed close behind with its completion in October. Both were the largest projects underway on campus, reaching a combined total of $92 million in total project costs.

Remaining major capital projects take place off campus in Everett and Spokane. With Everett’s $64.5 million North Puget Sound campus addition set to be completed in July 2017, and Spokane’s $16.2 million Teaching Health Center to be completed in April 2016.

The next round of capital projects contain the student initiated New Old Bookie project which is slated for completion in January 2017.

University facilities and planning are approaching the first of the final stages in certifying the project set to cost $32 million. The renovation is funded by the $98 mandatory student fee passed in early 2015, with construction firm Absher winning the bid.

“We picked Absher because they came up with the most creative and innovative look,” said Sean Greene, director of the CUB, during Wednesday’s ASWSU student senate meeting.

The facility will contain a fitness center as well as fresh food options, with multipurpose areas on different levels that include study and recreation space.

The building will also hold a hot yoga studio, napping lounges and an event space similar in size to Butch’s Den which will include an outdoor patio.

Backing behind such ideas as a yoga studio and napping pods came after the collection of the nearly 3,000 respondents to last years’ student survey.

 “They’ll be demoing to create a huge multiple level curve that will allow for a lot of natural light,” Greene said. The building will have an open feel.

The renovation of the Bookie joins four other capital projects in pre-design with the likes of the Multicultural Center here on campus set for a December 2016 completion. Other projects include $5.3 million for the Tri-Cities Student Union Building set for May 2017 completion and various phased upgrades to plant and animal facilities off campus.

Reporting by Zachary Anders