SciTech construction continues as planned

UWRF students were quick to take notice the removal of metal fences that have impeded the campus since this summer, signaling progress on the new Science and Technology Innovation Center (SciTech). Alan Symicek, Chief Facilities Officer explained that the fences were necessary for the construction of the building and its water cooling system, which powers the air conditioning.

The project required temporary disruptions to the campus mall to route underground systems, as the university’s Chill Plant is adjacent to the Central Heating Plant. “There were a few hiccups along the way,” Symicek said.

During excavation, crews encountered several unidentified utility pipes. According to Symicek, these pipes predated the site’s previous building, Hagestad Hall, and caused difficulties with the excavation process.

Symicek also commented on other upcoming projects on campus. The most prominent of these are the improvements to Hathorn Hall, as well as more excavation in the campus mall south of the Chalmer Davee Library, both of which will be happening in the summer of 2025. Hathorn Hall will also be undergoing a replacement of the electrical components on the east side of the building.The campus mall will also have pipes installed to replace the current stormwater drainage system, allowing for less pooling of water after a heavy storm.