Budget Cuts Cut Down Construction

Liberal Arts Buildings 2, 3, and 4 are now only getting a "necessary" $4 million upgrade beginning summer 2012.

The original plan for the 3 buildings was suppose to consist of seismic upgrading, dealing with handicap accessibility issues, and upgrading electrical systems. Upgrades specific to classrooms like new windows, removal and installation of  new roofs, heating and air conditioning ventilation, and providing smart classroom technology was also in the original plans, but thanks to budget cuts, that is no longer happening.

"We thought, originally, if we're going to close these buildings, why not do all these things?" Stephens, vice president of administration and finance, said to the daily 49er. "But that was another 5 or 6 million dollars."

Now the project is to only focus on what is necessary for health and safety issues. Seismic repairs, the ADA for the handicap accessibility issues and the electrical systems are the only things getting worked on from the original plan. Everything else is out. 

Classes scheduled in LA 2, 3, and 4 will be relocated to Peterson Hall 1 and 2 until construction is finished in May 2013.

Handicap accessibility will be dealt with in LA building 2, as well as 3 and 4.