NIU is undergoing several repair and upgrade projects throughout the summer. Below are some of the major projects.

* King Commons restoration. Work to repair the flatwork, install new drainage and improve the landscaping at the commons is scheduled to begin by early June. The commons will be closed to foot traffic for most of the summer.

* Grant Towers renovation. Work is under way to modernize Grant Towers C. When the project is completed (likely in 2011) the tower will feature larger rooms, upgraded bathrooms, improved common areas, infrastructure upgrades and compliance with code and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

* Sprinkler installation. Work will begin this summer to install sprinkler systems in the Lincoln and Douglas residence hall complexes. The work is in response to a state mandate requiring all residence halls to have fire suppression equipment. Completing that work in all halls will take a number of years, with the Neptune complex scheduled for next summer.

* Academic Advising Center. Work is underway to convert the former home of the Wesley Foundation, at 633 W. Locust Street, into a new academic advising center. It is hoped that the new center will be ready for business this fall.

* Memorial Garden. During the summer, infrastructure work will take place near the southeast corner of Cole Hall to create a memorial garden honoring the victims of the Feb. 14, 2008 shootings. Installation of the granite markers, which will be inscribed with the words “Forward, Together Forward” will take place in the fall.

* Parking Lot 7. The parking lot between Adams Hall and the Health Services building will be resurfaced and expanded.

* FieldTurf replacement. The artificial playing surface of Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium will be replaced. The old surface had exceeded its useful lifespan. Work is expected to be completed in late May.

* Campus Child Care Playground. New playground equipment for preschoolers will be installed at the Campus Child Care facility.

* Chilled Water Plant. Work continues on the new chilled water plant located just east of the Campus Life Building. When completed, the facility will allow the university to remove from the East Campus antiquated chiller equipment, some of which still uses environmentally unfriendly chlorofluorocarbon refrigerants. The goal is to have the structure enclosed by Thanksgiving and have the plant operating in 2011.

* Roof Repairs. Repairs are scheduled for the Student Recreation Center and the Holmes Student Center.

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