WMU HOME > ABOUT WMU > WMU NEWS Campus groundbreakings set stage for coming constructionApril 12, 2005 KALAMAZOO--Ground will be formally broken in the coming weeks for two major projects that will change the face of Western Michigan University's main campus in Kalamazoo. Construction on a new chemistry building will formally begin with a groundbreaking set for 1:30 p.m. Friday, April 22, near Wood Hall. The 83,000-square-foot building is set for fast-track construction and is planned for completion in time for the beginning of the fall semester 2006. Construction of the new James W. and Lois I. Richmond Center for Visual Arts will get under way following a formal groundbreaking at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 12. The long-planned facility will be located on the Fountain Plaza between the Dalton Center and the Miller Auditorium parking ramp and will be connected to both by enclosed walkways. The new building, which will take about 18 months to complete, will be used primarily as exhibition space and will be connected to Kohrman Hall, which eventually will be renovated to house classroom and studio space. Site preparation for both projects has been under way throughout the spring. Media contact: Cheryl Roland, 269 387-8400, cheryl.roland@wmich.edu WMU News |