Summer has been a busy time for construction workers at the Western New Mexico University main campus in Silver City. Orange cones are scattered throughout the 83-acre campus as beautification efforts are ongoing around historic buildings and walkways.
Light Hall, a registered historic building located on College Avenue, and the landscape area around the building are among the most visible areas of construction. Erected in 1927, Light Hall is now home to the School of Business. Remodeling of the building is in its third phase with updates to classroom space, restrooms and office space. The renovations also include interior finishes, insulation upgrades and installation of energy efficient HVAC system and controls. The exterior updates will include upgrades to stairs, rails and window repair to the two-story building.
Phase II renovations to Light Hall took place during summer of 2014 and fall of 2015 with upgrades to Light Hall Auditorium that now serves as a movie theater for the community. Those efforts were recognized by the State of New Mexico with a New Mexico Heritage Preservation award.
Construction also continues in the Brancheau P.E. Complex with a completion date of August 21 for the university swimming pool. Closed since May of 2011, the swimming pool, along with the portion of the building that houses the pool, will reopen as a recreation center for the university community. Prices and hours of operation will be determined early this fall.
Recent visitors to campus may have noticed new lighting structures near the Fine Arts Center Theater. Every campus building and almost all parking areas on campus have had lighting upgrades with structures that are more energy efficient and night sky friendly.
Finally, a walkway is near completion on Rhoda Road allowing students to walk from the center of campus up to the residence halls including Mustang Village and Muir Heights.
Over the next year, campus visitors will continue to see upgrades to parking lots, walkways and green space. An estimated 130 trees will be planted in several phases.
To schedule a campus tour of the construction efforts, please contact the Office of Communications at 575-538-6336 or email news@wnmu.edu.