Russell Commons, Phase 1
Knowing the Why Behind the Decisions-LHU Campus Changes
LOCK HAVEN — Driving through the campus of Lock Haven University, one will see many changes happening over the summer including additions, demolitions, and overall grounds improvements. All decisions lead back to one central focus: the LHU student.
The most notable change happening on campus is the demolition of Russell Hall. Built in 1953, Russell Hall was originally built to be a women’s only dormitory, named after Lillian E. Russell (1878-1958). The demolition of Russell Hall is part of a two-phase University Commons project that will take place over the next year. Originally, LHU engaged an architectural firm to study Russell Hall, as the original plan was to turn it into an administrative building that provided a “one-stop shop” student services building. In the course of the study, the architectural firm’s structural consultant determined that the original design and construction for the second and third floor did not meet current code for office usage and renovating the space would cost millions.
Financially, the University always strives to make the most responsible decisions. What some may not realize is that within the State System, there are industry guidelines for the maximum amount of space a university should have which, coupled with the level of enrollment and number of employees, equates to a dollar figure allocated to each State System institution. Coupled with maintenance, heating and cooling costs, and LHU’s now excessive square footage, the decision to tear down over renovate Russell Hall was the most cost effective option.
With the establishment of the new science center at East Campus, Ulmer Hall offices and classrooms were relocated to East Campus, leaving Ulmer available as an alternative for the administrative building. Ulmer’s first and second floors were renovated and offices from various buildings were relocated to Ulmer during the 2014 summer break.
Russell Hall is now being torn down to begin the two-phase University Commons project, which will create a green space in the middle of campus for student enjoyment. The green space will be adorned with landscaping and two pavilions will be built as well. In addition to the demolition of Russell Hall, the third floor of Ulmer is being renovated in preparation for the demolition of Sullivan Hall, which currently houses offices such as the President, Provost, and Dean of the Liberal Arts College. Ulmer Hall, a combination of Ulmer North (the original building) and Ulmer South (the addition to Ulmer North), is getting a facelift as well with a new entrance that will more completely join the two buildings together and distinguish the building as a university administration building.
Fairview Suites, opened in the fall of 2013 to give students a different option other than the traditional dormitory option, eliminated the need for Gross Hall, a residence hall which was in very poor condition. Gross Hall is currently undergoing demolition as well, and future plans include leveling the area for student recreation for those students who live “on the hill”.
Phase two of the University Commons project will include tearing down Sullivan Hall in the summer of 2016, making room for an amphitheater.
For more information on Lock Haven University, visit www.LHUP.edu, email admissions@LHUP.edu, or call (570) 484.2011.
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