8:29 a.m., Oct. 8, 2009----The demolition of the University of Delaware's Gilbert residence hall complex managed by Whiting Turner Contracting Co., of Wilmington, is slated for completion early in 2010.

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ABHA Associates of Wilmington is the architect for the Gilbert project.

“This involved a good deal of pre-planning and coordination with the city of Newark,” Penny Person, assistant director of facilities planning and construction, said. “There also are several issues involved, including safety and environmental concerns.”

The demolition of the 1960s structures involved asbestos abatement and the removal of six three-story buildings constructed of concrete, masonry, asphalt and metals. More than 90 percent of the demolished material is being recycled.

“To ensure safety of adjacent spaces and pedestrians, we planned for safety fencing, site-adequate lighting around the perimeter, and provided sediment and storm water management control,” Person said.

Person said that a feasibility study for new student residences on East Campus is being developed, with the goal of providing sufficient housing to replace some of the existing residence hall complexes located on UD's West Campus.

New solar panels

As part of its Path to Prominence^TM Initiative for the Planet, the University is currently evaluating options for hosting 2-megawatts of ground and roof-mounted solar panel arrays in various campus locations.

The potential installation of solar panel arrays reflects a sustainability effort that includes reducing UD's carbon footprint and promoting renewable energy technologies in the state.

Completed summer construction projects include:

Roof replacement projects included the UD Bookstore and Center for Counseling and Student Development in the Perkins Student Center. Contractor was Stocum Contracting Co., of West Chester, Pa. Hartshorn Hall also received a roof replacement, with Whiting Turner as the contractor.

The softball fields located southeast of the Bob Carpenter Center adjacent to Route 4 underwent renovations that included expanding dugouts, miscellaneous site work to add handicapped parking, and increased seating capacity to about 500. The project also included a new press box and a new storage facility. Contractor is Whiting Turner, and architect is Tetra Tech Associates of Newark.

The entire HVAC system for Smith Hall was replaced. Nason Construction Co. of Wilmington was the contractor with STV Inc., of Pennsylvania, the design engineer.

Upcoming projects include the renovation of Alison Hall East, slated to begin in the summer of 2010.

The three-phase project will include the replacement of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. A new fire protection system will be installed, and architectural changes will include a new roof, upgraded interior finishes and modifications to accommodate ADA building access. Architect is Tevebaugh Associates of Wilmington.

Article by Jerry Rhodes
Photo by Kathy F. Atkinson