A mild fall extended this year's construction season thus enabling renovations of the Kirner-Johnson Building to continue at a good pace.
With the installation of foundation walls approximately 90 percent complete, contractors are preparing to erect the steel frame of the building and fabricate a temporary enclosure that will allow construction to continue unimpeded by the arrival of winter weather.
In the building's interior spaces a "water feature" wall has been installed, and the sections that define the ramps and the Commons area are near completion. In addition, floor slabs for the basement, first and second floors have been poured and the basement mechanical spaces, including pads for mechanical equipment have been completed.
The large crane which has become a fixture of the Hamilton skyline these past few months will soon be joined by another, smaller crane which will be used for the installation of several critical, structural components of the building.
Installation of electrical switch gear and mechanical equipment in the basement will start after the Thanksgiving break. Work requiring the shut down of the building's electric power has been scheduled during breaks in an effort to minimize disruptions to classes and the academic calendar.
The renovation of Kirner-Johnson is made possible in part by a generous donation of $1 million from the estate of Curtis "Curt" R. Wilhelm '40. Like other renovation and construction projects on campus, the Kirner-Johnson project includes energy-efficient mechanical systems, environmentally friendly materials and improved indoor environmental quality, supporting Hamilton's commitment to sustainable development and good stewardship of both the campus and the environment.
