Steel delay, weather slow construction
By Lucy Hughes
IV Leader Staff
Construction connecting the top levels of IVCC has been
prolonged due to a delay in the delivery of steel and bad weather. The expected
date of completion has been pushed back from January to mid-April.
Weather delays expected, according to Lary Rousey, director
of facilities.
“Even though we have had a relatively mild winter, we had
enough bad days to cause delays in the project. This was anticipated at the
start of the project,” said Rousey.
Much of the exterior work has been done, including the roofs
and glazing work. Workers are now concentrating on the interior, where they are
installing drywall, ceilings, floor coverings, heating units, and interior
doors.
The existing links between buildings A and B as well as the
one between D and E will continue to be used as a walkway.
Many students like Jennifer Wallin say they are very excited
about the completion of the project. “Now I don’t have to walk up and down so
many steps between my classes that are on the third floor,” said Wallin.
Other students such as Joe Mayszak are opposed to the
construction.
“As far as wasting money goes, this one takes the cake. I am
going to boycott it by purposely going out of my way just to avoid the
conveniency of it,” said Mayszak.
Regardless, connecting the top levels will allow for less
hassle for those who are handicapped. In addition, school officials say it will
provide less confusion for the incoming freshman in the summer and fall
semesters.
Funds for the $1.17 million project were garnered through the
district’s Protection, Health and Safety tax levy.
Connecting the top levels is just the beginning of IVCC’s
plans to better its campus. Two projects are scheduled to follow the
interconnections of the third floor, Rousey said.
The first of these projects is the installation of elevators
in buildings A and E. In addition, the sidewalks in the courtyard will be
replaced, which will force the courtyard to remain closed until mid-June.