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University representatives discuss building projects around grounds at Student Council's "Breaking Grounds"

Sustainability a focus in current and future projects

<p>Chief facilities officer Donald Sundgren spoke on projects old and new around grounds, as well as the ongoing Rotunda renovations. </p>

Chief facilities officer Donald Sundgren spoke on projects old and new around grounds, as well as the ongoing Rotunda renovations. 

Rotunda renovations should be completed by summer 2016, with most work done by the Final Exercises for the Class of 2016, Chief Facilities Officer Donald Sundgren said Monday at "Breaking Grounds," an event hosted by Student Council’s Building and Grounds Committee.

The event brought representatives from University Facilities Management and the Office of the Architect to discuss the state of construction projects around Grounds, highlight future projects, and outline various University sustainability initiatives, said fourth-year Engineering student Christopher Collins, chair of the Building and Grounds Committee.

“Construction around Grounds affects all students and faculty,” Collins said. “Although it may be inconvenient, it’s important that people understand the net positive impacts of infrastructure and building improvements around Grounds.”

Collins said the Rotunda construction is of particular importance to students.

“The Rotunda is the biggest construction project, and that’s important because it’s the centerpiece of the University,” Collins said. “Speaking as a fourth year, we won’t be able to have our full graduating experience.”

Sundgren said the University completed 84 projects totalling $830 million between 2009 and 2014. He said upcoming projects include the Alderman Library renovation, renovations to Gilmer Hall and the renovation of all the McCormick Road dorms, which should begin in two years. Sundgren also discussed the recently completed African American cemetery.

Andrew Greene, the sustainability planner for Office of the University Architect, also presented the University’s sustainability issues, including SustainabilityUVa and the LEEDS certification of a number of buildings around grounds as well as all new buildings under construction.

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