by Xiomara Lorenzo
News Staff 

Since the beginning of the semester, orange-netted construction areas have impeded pedestrian traffic along North College and High Street. During the past few weeks, many areas on campus have been undergoing minor and major repairs. The inconvenient activity on the sidewalks, however, has many students asking, "Why now?"

"Contractors have been replacing sidewalks, parking areas, and patios on campus since commencement," said Joyce Topshe, director of construction services. Sidewalks along High
Street, however, were delayed in part due to the historical district approval process."

According to Alan Rubacha, project manager from construction services, the rebuilding of the sidewalks are "proactive repairs" intended to prevent possible accidents and to add to the general maintenance of campus. Though there have not been any major accidents attributed to crumbling sidewalks in the past, precautions are still being taken. "Construction on campus will go on indefinitely," Rubacha said. "There are always going to be changes."

The changes involved with the construction repairs, however, have left students and faculty grumbling due to excess noise during class time and unexpected inconveniences when traveling from one building to another.

"The sidewalks weren’t that bad before," said Michele Wellington ’04. "It’s annoying to have to encounter closed off areas on the sidewalk when you’re trying to get to class."

Some students have even suggested that the repairs themselves are posing risks to student pedestrians navigating blocked sidewalks.

"It is very dangerous," said Colin Scibetta ’05. "I feel as if I could fall on the slippery grass incline."

Despite comments expressing annoyance about the construction, some students did feel that the repairs were necessary.

"The sidewalks were really uneven," said Issey Issei ’03. "I am glad that they finally decided to do something, although I feel as if they have more to go."

"I was bothered at first," said Alyssa Webley ’05. "But I figured in the long run we’ll have a smooth sidewalk."

The new sidewalks, however, will come at a cost. The cost incurred during the summer for sidewalk and parking lots repairs totaled approximately $200,000. University physical plant
managers determined the extent of how much work and funds would be needed to complete the project. 

The campus is annually inspected and evaluated to see how the grounds can be improved and enhanced. 

"Approximately $200,000-$400,000 is invested each year in the maintenance of sidewalks, parking lots, stairs, and grounds," Topshe said.

Despite the inconveniences posed, Topshe insisted that such repairs are not unusual during the school year. 

"Projects are generally completed during the summer months," Topshe said. "However, repairs are often completed during the school year, especially if they present a safety issue." 

According to Topshe, the sidewalk repairs are expected to be completed by October.