The Daily Egyptian is published by the students of SIU at Carbondale. Except during vacations and exam weeks,
The Daily Egyptian is published Monday through Friday during the fall and
spring semesters and TWThF during the summer semester."
For the majority of the year, the dorms are students' home away from home. With student requests in mind, University Housing prepares changes that will both directly and indirectly effect current SIUC students.
University Housing plans to make minor improvements to the resident halls for the spring semester along with more major changes over the summer for next fall. University Housing also hopes to gain board approval from the college for a master plan, which will provide new housing on campus.
Lisa Schemonia, the associate director of Housing, said that for the most part business will continue as usual for next semester, but several projects will continue progressing such as the building of a new entrance sign in front of University Park, an outside dining area at Lentz hall and gates in front of Brush Towers to block off traffic in the circular drive.
More projects will occur over the summer. One of the largest changes will occur in Grinnell Hall. Schemonia said the lower level of Grinnell Hall will be divided into several sections to include a study area, conference room, and meeting area for large activities. A new ceiling, furniture and paint job will also be a part of the undertaking.
Two other renovations for the summer are electrical upgrades for Thompson Point and new elevators in Mae Smith.
"The electrical upgrades are something students have been wanting to happen, which will be much better than the outlets they have now," Schemonia said.
University Housing, the Resident Housing Association and a contracting firm are working together to form a master housing plan. If the plan meets board approval, the construction will take place over a 15-year period and will accommodate an additional 2,000 students.
If the project is approved, Schemonia said the first University Apartments will be built on the corner of Wall and Grand streets. These will most likely be built by 2007.
Joe Robinson, the president of RHA, said he has attended meetings when the consulting firm was present, and the whole plan revolves around the 'living-learning concept.'
"Even though the master plan will not affect current students, the changes will be great for everyone," Robinson said. "It will be something to look forward to as loyal patrons."
