Campus construction updates - March 2024

During its regular meeting on Thursday, March 7, the USI Board of Trustees heard from Jim Wolfe, Director of Facility Operations and Planning, about updates on the various construction projects currently happening around campus.

• Recently completed projects:
  • The HVAC mitigation project is moving the campus to a Trane HVAC control system, a much more reliable service company, according to Wolfe. USI HVAC techs will need to only train on one software system to use it.
  • The replacement of transformers and supply panels in UC West was finished.
  • Replacement boilers for the O’Bannon Residence Hall were installed.
  • Fiber optic cables were installed at the USI Softball Field, and security cameras were placed at all Broadway Fields.
• Projects under construction:
  • Great weather has allowed for great progress on the construction of the Recreation, Wellness and Fitness Center updates, Wolfe said. The project is still on schedule, with the needed interior demolition now complete. Water lines, fire sprinkler lines and sewer lines have all been connected to the building, as well. Wolfe states the building should be completed and ready for departments and offices to transition into spaces this summer.
  • Other projects moving forward on campus include a replacement of the fire alarm system in the student housing apartments; a replacement of the No. 3 cooling tower and installation of new exterior signage throughout campus. Work also continues on the replacement of lights to LEDs on campus.
• Projects in design:
  • Several projects were listed in Wolfe’s report as in the design phase for USI.
    • Phase IV of the renovation and additions to the Health Professions Building
    • Renovations and additions to the Wright Administration Building
    • A new building project for University Creative and Print Services
    • Additions for the Recreation, Fitness and Wellness Center storage and bike shop
    • Refurbishment of Housing’s Eagle Express C-Store
    • Installation of a new HVAC system at New Harmony’s Atheneum