Despite inclement weather, several more permanent windows have been installed in recent weeks. The combination of permanent widows and temporary window coverings has enclosed the building sufficiently that a suitable interior temperature can be maintained to allow interior work to continue.

A wall of windows will provide natural lighting in the first-floor dining room on the east side of the new Union.

Plumbers and electricians continue to work throughout the building. As electrical and plumbing work is complete, ceiling grids and dry wall are being installed and the shape of rooms is more clearly defined. Painters have started work on the second floor.

The area to the right of the curved wall will house the grill and service counter for the snack bar. On the left is a dining area and through the opening in the right center of the photo will be the game room.

Bruce Monnier of the Facilities Management staff has provided the interior photos included in this newsletter. Additional photos will be placed on the Internet at <http://www.valpo.edu/construction/union/> in the near future.

The Board of Directors has approved renovation of Brown Field that will include installation of a synthetic surface to allow increased use of the field for intercollegiate football and soccer and for intramurals. Work will begin as soon as weather permits in order to have the new surface installed in time for use of the field prior to the start of fall classes. Work on this project should provide minimal disruptions to campus life although the use of heavy equipment will create noise in the area and dust can be expected.

Two old University-owned houses on Union Street near the Police Department are among buildings scheduled for demolition within the next few weeks.  Cost of maintaining the houses exceeds the benefits of their use.  The area will be landscaped and seeded to grass.

The house on LaPorte Avenue that has served as the Valparaiso International Student House is being remodeled to become the home of the new Confucius Institute.

Work on a new campus road from the University’s eastern entrance on Sturdy Road to the northwest corner of Scheele Hall will begin after May commencement ceremonies. This road is another segment of the road that eventually will circle campus. Included in the road project is creation of a new entrance on the north side of campus similar to the entrance on Route 30.