Brianna Wallen
News Editor
As the Owls returned, they observed a notable change on campus. There is construction being done behind Chase Hall.
Beginning in the first week of August, the university underwent a project to correct the water pipes for the residence halls near the residence quad.
“The pipes that are in the ground, we can’t use that right now because they’re broken. They’re cracked, so they had to do a big project on that,” Chase Residence Hall Director Juwan Givens said.
The pipes are inoperable, so the trailers located near the residence halls are their primary source of heated water.
“Once the pipes are fixed, everyone will be able to have hot water and everything from them,” Givens said.
Despite the construction site’s location, the project benefits all the halls surrounding Chase Hall. This includes Wilkinson Hall, Farnham Hall, Neff Hall and Hickerson Hall.
Their goal is to solve the ongoing water temperature issues that derived from the damaged pipes.
“Last year, we noticed there had been a couple issues. Sometimes, the water would be cold, and it would just be a struggle,” Givens said. “I think that’s when they noticed that this is a deeper problem.”
Nursing major Simone Dwyer, a sophomore, was a resident in Chase Hall last semester.
Dwyer said that while living there she had experienced multiple problems with the water.
“At times, the water was great, but then there were times when there was cold water for 2 to 3 days,” Dwyer said.
Dwyer, who is now a resident of West Campus Residence Complex, said that she is proud that the water issue is now being solved, as she used to be frustrated with her living situation.
“I had to walk to Farnham or Wilk to shower in warm water, and I feel like I shouldn’t have to do that,” Dwyer said. “It is an inconvenience to bring my shower caddy and towel to another hall when I should have hot water in the building I am paying a lot of money to stay in.”
Residents currently in Chase Hall face similar issues with the water.
Sociology and criminal justice major Jashaun Lee, a freshman, said: “Sometimes, it would be way more cold than hot while I’m in the shower.”
With many complaints from residents, it is no surprise that they are eager for the new pipes to be put into action.
“Once the project is complete, residents will be able to enjoy some nice hot showers and won’t have to worry about cold water,” Givens said.
The project is estimated to be completed by January of 2025. Until then, Givens recommends that residents alert their hall director if they face any issues.
“If you have any issues with your water, just let your hall director know, and they’ll fix it right away,” Givens said.
VOL. 64- ISSUE 1
