Construction along 13th Avenue between University and Kincaid is causing intense foot and bicycle traffic due to the north sidewalk being largely partitioned off.
Sidewalks on the north side of 13th Avenue were closed off last spring and construction and renovations are expected to last until summer 2011.
“I took some summer classes, and they started (construction) then; I’m surprised that they’re still doing it,” University junior Danielle Ragan said. “I think it’s good that they’re doing renovations, so I’ll risk getting hit by a bike.”
The biggest construction projects on 13th Avenue in between University and Kincaid streets are Fenton Hall and Anstett Hall. Both are undergoing seismic updates along with intense renovations to allow the historic buildings to be more accessible to students, including installing elevators and revamping classrooms. Fenton and Anstett underwent asbestos abatement prior to construction.
The funds for renovations at Anstett come from a $6 million gift to the University from 1955 alumna Hope Anstett, whose money was donated in memory of her late husband, Joseph. Meanwhile, funding the over $5.5 million Fenton project comes from G-bonds and energy loans.
Despite the fact that these buildings require serious renovations, the finding a way to class through the traffic and construction irritated a few.
“It was awful all day trying to get to class,” University freshman Gerald Jones said.
University freshman Anna Alvarez also experienced some difficulty getting around campus.
“When I would cross the street to go another class, I would get worried of getting into someone’s path because longboards don’t really stop well,” she said.
Bicyclists also faced problems.
“There was a lot of maneuvering, and there was some conflict,” University sophomore Kylie Ogata said while on her bike. “People don’t try to get out the way sometimes.”
University freshman Brian Ge decided that walking his bike through the heavy traffic would be a better idea.
“I’m just walking my bike because I don’t want to run anyone over,” Ge said. “(The construction has) been here for a while, but if it really helps, then I don’t mind much.”
Some people would like to see solutions to the traffic problem.
“I was thinking earlier that they could have bikers and long boarders on one side (of the road) and walkers on the other,” University freshman Aubrey West said. “But I think people are socially aware and courteous.”
George Bleekman, Capital Construction project manager, could not be reached in time for deadline.
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