Improvements to the 40-year-old Liberal Arts building are clearly in progress. Construction was needed to bring the building up to current earthquake codes and make safer for individuals in the bounds of the building.

Construction to the LA building began on Dec. 21, 2002.

“A lot of work was accomplished over the break, ” said Michael Sebak, Director of Physical Plant.

The contractor, Kemp Brothers, drilled 28 holes into the ground, which are 70 feet deep. Each was filled with reinforcing bars and concrete.

Sebak stated that roof sections were removed to tie cross braces (2″ x 16″ wood beams) together from side to side at four locations. Steel plates have also been added to the stair columns for better support.

Huge concrete beams were formed and poured to tie all the piles together below rise on each side of the building. Steel half circles have also been installed where three separate beams will remain. Once it has all been installed and welded in place, concrete blocks will be placed to form walls.

There is only one entrance available to students and faculty. The way in has been rerouted to the west entrance where the automatic doors open next to the elevator.

“The restrooms are closed because of renovation of The American Disability Act (ADA) standards,” said Sebak, “All classes are open; none have been closed due to construction.”

The project is costing a little over $1 million and is expected to be completed by Apr. 1, 2003.