Not even Hurricane Matthew could slow down construction of the new Greer
Environmental Sciences Center, which remains on schedule for a summer
2017 opening. As of the end of October, the state-of-the-art facility is
entirely enclosed from the elements and stands at 60 percent complete.
Work over the winter months will focus primarily on the interior
finishes and infrastructure in the science labs.
Another highlight of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center’s finishes will be the sinker cypress,
which is featured on the exterior of the classroom portion of the
building and will be prominent in key locations inside. Using sinker wood
is considered a sustainable practice as it preserves many living
trees—it is also prized for its beauty and will enhance the design of
the new building.
The original campus greenhouse has been
relocated to make way for installation of a new two-zoned (tropical and
arid climate) greenhouse. The greenhouse plants and the extensive
gardens located around the Greer Environmental Sciences Center will be
installed near the end of construction but prior to the summer season.
Plans
are also moving ahead for a new circle and parking that will connect
the Village IV parking lot to Smith Drive. An anonymous gift of $371,150
makes possible this new roadway and 70 additional parking spaces. The
new road will provide improved traffic flow, smoother drop-offs for the
forthcoming YMCA Partnership Facility, and additional parking for
faculty and staff.
Finally, at the Fall Meeting of the Board of
Trustees, held on campus Oct. 19, Steve Sproles from Derck & Edson
presented an overview of the Campus Master Plan. We’re currently
compiling feedback from the Board and will share accordingly with Derck
& Edson as we move toward finalization of the plan. The 10-year plan
will include a space-utilization study, parking study, and
facilities-condition assessment plan.
I will be sure to share
additional updates as they become available. In the meantime, watch the
Greer Environmental Sciences Center come to life through our live webcam
at www.vwc.edu/GESClivecam.
