By Caitlyn Crenshaw–
A mere glimpse through UofL’s campus and anyone will see the signs of a campus expanding its boundaries. Throughout the summer, construction has been working to complete a few projects before the start of classes and begin other long term projects.
Shannon Staten, Director of University Housing, said, “The construction started in the beginning of the summer, so the residents that are there now are only catching the tail end of it.” These students are experiencing few inconveniences and looking forward to the campus’ future.
Construction marks the majority of campus from the second phase of Cardinal Towne, to the Louisville Hall lobby and the north entrance of campus, to the College of Business. With the start of construction on the new student recreation center on 4th street, planned to open in the fall of 2013, students will soon have more construction to peer into the future of campus.
Staten said, “I think that when they see the end result they’ll realize it’s all worth it.” On move-in day campus construction had the potential to obstruct the flow of students; however, students were determined to integrate into the campus community.
In the midst of move-in day at Louisville Hall, it “was a little rough, but not impossible,” said Jake St. Germain, a sophomore nursing major.
St. Germain, who is an RA on the 3rd floor of Louisville Hall, said, “I think that making the campus look a lot nicer and making this lobby nicer will make students more likely to hang out here, even if they are commuters.” Building a campus community of students, professors and leaders through expanding campus boundaries will create the future of the university.
Shirley Willihnganz, executive vice president and university provost, said, “As our retention and graduation rates have grown, and our academic and research programs have expanded, we need the space.” As the university succeeds academically and financially in the current economic climate, the more construction will mark the campus.
“I’ve had parents say that they can barely recognize it,” said St. Germain of the changing campus scenery.
Larry Owesley, vice-president of business affairs, said of the every changing campus background, “We will continue to think beyond the boundaries of our campus. Physically and intellectually.” These physical boundaries are being pushed alongside with student’s intellectual boundaries.
The newly renovated north entrance to campus declares UofL’s presence and dedication to keeping up with the times. Also, the College of Business opened an addition with a ‘green’ roof costing $3.4 million and playing host to a rooftop full of plant life.
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Photo: Eric Voet/The Louisville Cardinal
