When Martin Hall reopened last spring, construction was still finishing up as fraternity members moved into the building. Construction delays started to become more common than not.
In an editorial last spring, The Antelope asked for more realistic expectations on construction timelines, as many projects’ completion dates were getting pushed back.
A year later, we are happy to see the completion and progress of UNK’s latest projects. Things are looking promising.
Martin Hall, the new fraternity housing, wasn’t complete until a year after its expected finish. Armstrong Hall, its sorority counterpart, finished up in January. The new sorority housing was originally set to open in the fall semester but industry setbacks delayed its opening as well. We are glad to see it finished in time with its adjusted timeline, as it completes the Fraternity and Sorority Life housing project. No longer a construction site, Martin Hall and Armstrong Hall stand as a sign of our advancing campus.
Most recently finished are the updates done in Warner Hall. Administrative offices moved out of the hall last spring, many of which were relocated to the NSU during the renovations. Over spring break, several offices moved back into Warner Hall.
Another recent change occurred in the Ponderosa Room of the NSU. The flooring was replaced and the walls were repainted. We are happy to see these updates made, as it creates a better atmosphere for the many events hosted in the space. It’s good to see smaller renovations being done along with the big projects.
Apart from the completed projects, many appear to be making consistent, steady progress – something we don’t take for granted after experiencing unavoidable delays in the construction industry.
The Rural Health Education Building, which broke ground in early September 2023, is quickly taking shape. The building is scheduled to open in 2026, and by the looks of it, the likelihood of that happening seems promising. UNK even posted a photo to Facebook last week about a beam raising ceremony at the building, writing in the caption, “No kidding – construction is moving fast on this transformational facility.” We have high hopes for the Rural Health Education Complex’s completion.
Additionally, the Calvin T. Ryan Library is in its final stages of construction. The library began construction in December 2022. Of those affected by the library’s construction, The Antelope is one of them. Our home is in the Mitchell Center in the library, but we’ve resided in University Residence South since the library began renovations. As of now, the plan is that we will be able to move back to the library for the fall semester, and we are excited to return.
The continued construction progress on campus is a good change to see. As projects wrap up, we extend our gratitude to all of those helping make these projects happen. We are hopeful for the projects’ completions and can’t wait to see how they affect current and future Lopers. Our fingers are crossed that delays are behind us.
