Campus Connection

Construction on the Pharmacy Hall addition has begun in earnest. The Maryland legislature approved $62 million in funding for the project in April of this year after nearly a decade of lobbying by the University of Maryland, Baltimore. The construction has caused rerouting of both pedestrians and vehicle traffic, and though the foundation has yet to be poured, discussions about the internal elements of the building are already well under way.

Though incoming students should expect to pass the construction site during the day, it is important to note that the pedestrian walkway closes nightly at 6pm. Whiting Turner, the construction company hired for the project, originally closed off the walkway as early as 4:30 pm. However, the university has negotiated with the company to keep the walkway open later each evening at a price of $23,000 for the duration of the project.

Though the addition is far from finished, distribution of space and interior design elements are already being discussed. The sectioning off of space into classrooms, labs, and common areas is being done with an eye towards student needs. The new lobby will include a full kitchen and student organization space. Earlier discussions of a fireplace in the space have been dismissed for the time-being, due to both financial and structural considerations. Additionally, several study rooms with enough space for small groups will overlook the planned three story atrium.

The design is also focused on practical issues, with plenty of windows to allow for natural light and acoustic wood to absorb noise. Design elements are being selected based on both style and durability, with goals for a classic look that will remain current over time.

The first floor will also boast an impressive classroom that will seat 200 students with outlets for laptops and other electronic devices. A second, smaller classroom will sit adjacent to a versatile space where meetings, presentations, and even catered events may be held.

Disturbances from the initial phases of construction have been relatively minor. The classroom on the north side of Pharmacy Hall is slated for demolition to make way for the addition, and classes have been temporarily relocated to a second floor classroom. The lobby area will be closed entirely beginning in May 2009 and will likely remain closed for the duration of the construction. The addition is currently slated to open in August 2010.

The School of Pharmacy will host an official groundbreaking ceremony on September 19. UMB Law School alumnus, Governor Martin O’Malley, is expected to attend.