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April 2009 - The UA System Board of Trustees gave approval in November 2008 for work to commence
on the Wilson Hall renovation project. Construction costs for the 96,602 square foot renovation will be met
through a $3M State bond issue and an $8M bond securred by the University. The bond issue was given final approval by the UA System Board of Trustees in April 2009.
Wilson Hall was constructed in 1969 with an addition in 1975, and all of the original mechanical and electrical
equipment still exists in the building. It is in the north zone of campus just east of Ben Graves Drive and
centrally located between University Drive and Holmes Avenue. With the completion of the Shelby Center for
Science and Technology, the biology, chemistry, and physics departments have relocated from Wilson Hall to the
new facility.
This project will renovate the vacated space into a more modern and efficient teaching space. Existing labs will
be converted into classrooms. The newly renovated space will create additional teaching space for the Division
of Continuing Education as well as the College of Nursing and College of Liberal Arts. These colleges have reached,
or are nearing, maximum capacity in their current locations (Nursing Building, Morton Hall, and Roberts Hall).
Wilson Hall, situated adjacent to the Salmon Library, is within short walking distance from the Nursing Building,
Morton Hall, and Roberts Hall and will thus provide ease of access and connectivity to each of the Colleges.
The renovation will include the renewal of the 39-year old mechanical and electrical systems,
creating a more reliable, comfortable, and adaptable building. The renovation should also decrease maintenance and
utility costs for the building. In addition, the project includes abatement of hazardous material,
removal of abandoned equipment, and replacement of older interior finishes. Asbestos abatement has already been
completed prior to the anticipated start of construction activity.
To support this change of use, the exterior will be modified moderately by installation of
canopies at front and rear, some rework of entrance ways, new landscaping and walk areas, and the addition of several
new windows within classrooms and offices on the building´s perimeter. The building will be re-roofed, as well, with
existing greenhouses (2) removed. The renovated look will blend with other nearby campus buildings, yet provide a more
contemporary expression for Wilson Hall with its new and upgraded functions.
Construction is underway is is scheduled for completion in December 2009.
Floor plans for each level may be viewed through the following links:
Pictures of construction in progress:
Architectural renderings for the building exterior (click on each picture below for a larger image):
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