Once again, Provost Kim Schatzel has sent around an update about the busted pipe in the basement in Halle (which I include below), and it would seem that the library and physical plant people are on top of it all and making good progress on the repairs. Two things that occur to me now:
- I’m pretty impressed with Schatzel’s swiftness and directness about keeping people informed about all this. It bodes well, IMO.
- There’s been some kind of problem with water, plumbing, leaking, etc. in the auditorium in the library for years, and along with this issue, I do have to wonder if there isn’t some kind of serious contractor/construction issue that is now making itself visible. I’m not sure there’s much recourse at this stage since the building has been open for at least a dozen years now, but this might be something to follow.
Schatzel’s message after the jump:
Here is a brief summary of restoration efforts in the Halle Library for the past week:
- Many areas are now dry enough for drying equipment to be removed, and the remaining drying equipment is expected to be removed by Monday, January 23.
- Ceiling demolition and removal of damaged drywall are complete.
- An air monitoring system was installed on Thursday, January 19 to track temperature, humidity, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Air and carpet sampling for mold is scheduled for Monday, January 23. Anti-microbial spray is being used on the carpet to eliminate or reduce the potential for mold growth. Carpet replacement estimates are in progress.
- Temporary lights have been installed in the hallway on the ground floor where the pipe sagged, and the staff elevator is in service to be used for maintenance and construction activities during the project. Elevator access for the public is maintained at the other elevator in the building.
- Seats are being re-installed and floor outlets are being wired in the auditorium.
- EMU is working with a structural engineering consultant on the design and specifications for re-hanging the pipe.
- Mass notification arrays on the library roof have been re-activated.
