Construction is underway on the 150 Columbia lecture hall renovation project, which will bring the 55-year-old space up to modern standards.

Fencing has been placed around the exterior of the building and so far asbestos-containing materials have been removed and audiovisual equipment is being salvaged, according to project manager Gene Mowery. The lecture hall will undergo a complete interior renovation, which will include a new seating design and the replacement of the audiovisual system.

“Fortis Construction intends to minimize the construction impact on the site as much as possible, including limited construction fencing on the west side of the site that encompasses only those areas affected by the project – essentially encapsulating the raised planters and leaving the main walkway area unaffected,” Mowery said.

Built in 1960, the lecture hall has received some audiovisual and lighting updates over the last few years. New upgrades to the space will include new lighting and broadcasting capabilities. While the construction will be confined to the lecture hall and a few lobbies, a new exterior ramp is being built to provide access to the front of the room, according to Mowery.

He says renovation is scheduled to be completed at the end of fall term 2015 and the first classes in the lecture hall will be held in during winter term 2016.

“Throughout the construction period, Campus Planning, Design and Construction and Fortis Construction will work together to communicate construction activity and timelines with project neighbors, particularly activity that may generate noise, vibration and dust,” said Mowery.

Construction offices will be located in the 150 Columbia south lobby space.

—By Corinne Boyer, Public Affairs Communications intern