04/17/2024

Dear campus community,

We're kicking off major campus enhancements this summer to boost security, efficiency, and your overall campus experience. Here are some of the highlights of what to expect this summer:

  • Upgraded Access Control System
    This summer, we are upgrading our campus access control system (card-swipe system) to Lenel OnGuard version 8.2. This is an important investment in campus security that will increase the areas served by an access control system, provide contactless access, and support future growth. The transition to contactless technology means that accessing buildings and facilities will be quicker and more convenient - simply wave your ID card, and you're in! This method will reduce wear and tear on devices, resulting in lower maintenance costs and fewer replacements in the long run. We will provide more information about the transition from swipe cards to proximity cards as the project progresses.
  • Continuation of Electrical Infrastructure Enhancement
    This summer, we will be excavating and laying conduits underground to continue our transition to a more efficient and cleaner 12.47kV power system from the current 4kV system. These upgrades will help ensure reliable power distribution across campus, supporting our academic and residential buildings with a stronger and more efficient electrical network. By creating a loop system and providing increased redundancy, we can de-energize portions of the 12.47kV system for maintenance and construction projects with minimal disruptions to campus operations. The transition to higher voltage will result in less energy wasted and more reliable power, paving the way for future possibilities such as replacing select natural gas systems with zero carbon-electrified solutions.
  • Wheelock Dining Hall and Upper Marshall Hall Refresh
    In response to feedback obtained during the Campus Development Plan (formerly the Master Plan) engagement phase, we are planning to revamp the interior finishes and furnishings of Lower Marshall Hall and the Mezzanine dining space. Upper Marshall Hall will also undergo some finish upgrades. The renovations will maintain or exceed the current seating capacities and introduce diverse seating options, including a mix of high and low tables, counters, and banquet seating complemented by flexible furniture to accommodate both private and large group gatherings. The primary goal of this project is to enhance the campus dining experience by providing a space that caters to the diverse needs of our community. The project will commence on May 6 and is expected to be completed before the fall semester begins.
  • Regester Residence Hall Refresh
    Set to reopen before students return in mid-August, the Regester Hall refresh, similar to the Seward Hall refresh, will introduce lounges for each floor, modified showers for more privacy, and new single-use gender-neutral bathrooms on each floor (shower included). The project will also include updated energy-efficient LED lighting, flooring, paint, and Environmental Graphic Design (large-scale wall art) that highlights and distinguishes each floor with individual wayfinding, as well as new common area furniture.
  • Howarth Hall
    This summer we will continue a window replacement project with energy-efficient windows at Howarth Hall. Our aim is to maintain the historic look of the building while ensuring that it is more energy-efficient. You'll notice scaffolding on the south side of the building between Howarth and Trimble as we work on installing 15 wood windows in this phase. The final phase to replace the metal windows will occur summer of 2025. Access will be maintained throughout the project, which begins on May 6 and will be completed before the fall semester begins.

Benefits to Our Campus Community
By moving forward with these projects, we address some critical campus needs for now and for the future, and anticipate each of these projects will lead to an enhanced experience on our campus for all.

We are excited about the positive changes these projects will bring to our campus and are committed to minimizing any inconvenience during the implementation phase. We anticipate some dirt, dust, and noise will occur, but we will do our best to mitigate and communicate any disruptions. In addition to these major projects, we will continue our efforts to reduce our deferred maintenance with other projects that will be less disruptive to our campus community but will make an impact.

Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated as we work towards enhancing our University of Puget Sound home.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email us at facilities@pugetsound.edu or contact me directly.

Thank you,

Robert M. Kief, CFM, CEFP, SFP | Associate Vice President for Facilities Services