Jones Hall and the Gore Education Complex are the current targets of construction. Jones Hall, often referred to as “the science building,” has been under renovation since December of last year. Now in its final stages, Jones is to be completed before the New Year. The project has cost the University $12.6 million and is funded through PICO dollars allocated through the state.
“We are focusing on bringing the buildings up to date,” said Sam Houston, director of facilities planning. “The students deserve a 21st century education.” The renovations will include new AC/Heating units, projector screens, new computers and other minor upgrades to create a more sophisticated atmosphere for learning.
Sasha Matthews, a second-year biology student from Lithonia, Ga. is ready for the new working conditions.
“I’m excited to have some new equipment,” said Matthews. “Also, cleaner and properly lit rooms will be great. The changes will definitely help us work better.”
GEC has been used for general studies courses and houses the College of Education. The three story building will begin its overhaul in January 2011 and is estimated to be completed by February 2012. This reconstruction will cost $13.9 million and is coming from the same PICO dollars account. Construction management company Baycrest Corporation is teaming up with Metron to make this project a success.
Amy Fuller, a fourth-year elementary education student from Ft. Lauderdale, is pleased to see the renovations on campus.
“It’s definitely needed,” said Fuller. “The building is gravely under serviced and we need these updates. It’ll be amazing when completed.”
Other students echoed the same sentiments.
“Sometimes we feel that we have the short end of the stick compared to a lot of other schools and colleges at FAMU,” said Jaimee Austin, a second-year education student from Tallahassee. “This will help our professors feel better about the program, teach us better and our learning will increase. It’s a win for everybody.
The professors have been in transition for quite some time while these renovations are being made. The professors in Jones Hall have been placed in the former FAMU Developmental Research School for the time being and several of their classes are being taught there. As they get ready to move into their new offices, the professors in GEC are preparing to move out.
It is a part the University plan to have completely renovated University buildings within the next 20 years.