ECU News Services
Trustees Way is one of several streets on campus affected by construction and repair projects this summer. It is expected to reopen by early June. (Photos by Cliff Hollis)
May 22, 2017
By Jules Norwood ECU News Services
As students, faculty, staff and visitors navigate East Carolina University's campus this summer, they are all but guaranteed to encounter construction crews working to keep buildings and infrastructure up to date and in working order. Summer is the busiest time of year for facilities crews, said John Fields, director of ECU facilities engineering and architectural services. With fewer classes being held and fewer students on campus, it's the best time to complete projects while minimizing the impact of the disruption they cause. Fields said more than $450 million in projects are under way or in the planning stages right now, from the $55 million southside expansion at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium to a new $90 million life sciences and biotechnology building. "There are big projects and small projects, all important to the mission of the institution," Fields said. "Some of them are visible and under construction, while others are not visible but planning is in progress. Some are not glitzy but they are vital to keeping the campus functioning."
There are approximately 100 projects ongoing across main campus, some of which will impact vehicle and pedestrian traffic and access to buildings and parking lots, said Ricky Hill, interim executive director of facilities services. "We ask in advance for your patience and cooperation while we are performing these critical projects to improve our campus infrastructure and buildings," he said. "Please respect and avoid areas identified as construction areas for your safety." Road and sidewalk closures Some of the impacted roads and sidewalks include but are not limited to:
The new student center on 10th Street is beginning to take shape and is on track for completion in the fall of 2018.