While construction continues at Shippensburg University, students can expect it to be nearly complete by the fall semester.

During the past year, fences, cones and signs blocked off numerous areas of the campus, and crews were diligently working to complete the work. End of year preparations are a main focus for the construction team, said Lance Bryson, the associate vice president of SU’s facilities planning and management.

“Right now, there is much effort being put into getting ready for commencement and getting the campus looking good,” he said. “It will be looking a lot different in late August.”

The largest project that impacted the campus, this year, was the central heating and air conditioning systems’ renovations, which blocked off many roads and pathways. Bryson explained that this project is about 90 percent complete and will finish up in mid July.

Once work on the underground systems wrap up, the demolition of long-standing dorm Naugle Hall will begin. Bryson explained that the process is in motion with the removal of hazardous materials. The demolition is anticipated to start July 2. Remaining building materials, such as concrete, steel and copper, will be recycled and used for roadway material and other resources.

Currently, there are no future plans for the area where Naugle sits, Bryson explained, except for the planting of grass, which will occur over the summer and into early fall.

Improvements to other areas of the campus are also in the works. While Mowery Hall and McLean Hall will not be removed, there are renovations planned for the two dorm buildings.

“We are going to do some work to enhance living conditions for students going in,” Bryson said.

The plan is to enhance the Wi-Fi and fire alarm systems. Water piping and some heating and air equipment will also be looked at. Plans to renovate the bathrooms in Mowery Hall will also take effect. The work will begin May 18, and it is expected to be completed by August 3.

The football field will also have new speakers installed to project sound towards the practice football field, as well. It is expected to be ready for fall’s football season.

In addition to these projects, there will be a new software engineering lab in MCT and a finance lab in Grove Hall that will begin work over the summer. Lehman Library is also in preparations for upgrades in the quiet half of the building’s basement. New carpet will be installed, walls will be painted and new furniture will be brought in. The project will be worked on throughout next year.

“Our goal is to have it similar to the other half of the downstairs we have worked on,” Bryson said. “We will be bringing in computers, as well. We anticipate to get rid of most of the bookshelves.”

For updates about the construction or questions, contact department of facilities by emailing jlbrys@ship.edu or calling (717) 477-1451.

Share