The Board of Visitors approved plans to accelerate the construction of a new Alderman Road residence hall, which is now scheduled for completion by fall 2014.
This residence hall's construction is the fourth and final phase of the Alderman Road Replacement Project and was originally expected to be completed in 2017, said Richard Kovatch, associate vice president for business operations.
University officials, however, decided to complete the project sooner to save money.
"In this sort of economy, the bids that were coming in on the Alderman Road Project were significantly less than what had been anticipated," said Vince Mastracco, chairman of the Board's Finance Committee and member of the Buildings and Grounds Committee. "We are saving considerably by taking an aggressive approach to the construction project."
But the decision forces the University to be even more efficient as it implements its current housing plans.
"In order to start phase four, we have to take down Lile and Tuttle [dormitories]," Kovatch said. "Phase three must be completed before that can happen in order to have enough housing space for students."
This third phase consists of the construction of two additional residence halls to be finished in fall 2013, Kovatch said. This construction follows the second phase, which is to construct two residence halls and a commons building by fall 2011. The first phase was the construction of Kellogg House, which opened to students in fall 2008.
Though the University now may have to deal with more time constraints to get construction off the ground, officials are excited to begin the final phases of the project.
"I'm really pleased we're able to get phase four started and well under way," Mastracco said.
Read More
U.Va. researchers identify that HIV drugs can protect against Alzheimer’s disease
By Lauren Seeliger | YesterdayDoctor Jayakrishna Ambati and his research team have begun work on a new drug called K9 which could treat and prevent Alzheimer’s.
Graduating students share their future plans as they enter the job market
By Nina Broderick | 2 days agoMany students find the Career Center to be a valuable tool during the job search and application process.
U.Va.’s Finals Weekend spotlights the achievement and service of the Class of 2025
By Leigh Bailey | 4 days agoIn University President Jim Ryan’s welcome address, he acknowledged the support of family members and friends present in the audience and beyond that played supportive roles in these graduates’ lives.
