News Summary

At the University of Michigan’s Diag, three construction projects are currently in progress, causing navigation issues for students. The initiatives aim to enhance infrastructure and accessibility, addressing problems related to pavement and drainage. With delays extending completion dates, students express frustrations over the ongoing work while recognizing the need for improved campus facilities. The changes are expected to benefit drainage and tree health in the area, but disruptions continue to challenge daily commutes.

Ann Arbor: Ongoing Construction Projects in U-M’s Diag Make Navigation Challenging for Students

Three construction projects are currently ongoing in the Diag area at the University of Michigan, causing challenges for students navigating the campus. These projects aim to improve the infrastructure and accessibility of the area, addressing long-standing issues related to pavement and drainage.

Details of Construction Projects

The current construction initiatives include:

• Replacement of old brick pavers and their concrete underlayment.
• Enhancements to drainage systems for low-lying sidewalks.
• Addition of an accessible ramp at the north entrance of the Hatcher Graduate Library.

These improvements are necessary to repair damage caused by repeated freeze-thaw cycles and normal wear and tear from heavy foot traffic. The accessible ramp will supplement the existing ADA-compliant entrance located on the library’s south side.

Construction Timeline Changes

Construction for these projects began in May 2023. Initially, it was expected that the brick paver replacement would be completed by August 15, and the ramp construction by August 29. However, recent updates from Marina Roelofs, the co-interim associate vice president for facilities and operations, indicate that new completion dates have been set:

• Brick paver replacement is now expected to conclude in September.
• The Hatcher Ramp completion has been pushed to October.
• The walkway portion of the drainage project is anticipated to finish by September.
• Work north and west of Angell Hall is projected to extend into late fall.

Delays in the schedule have been attributed to the unearthing of more extensive damage to the concrete subbase than was initially anticipated, necessitating additional repairs and work.

Enhancements and Expected Benefits

The improvements aim to establish better drainage systems across the Diag, significantly enhancing the area’s functionality during inclement weather. Previously, puddles on flat sidewalks created difficulties during rain and snowfall. The new design will channel water effectively to catch basins, thus reducing safety hazards.

Additionally, the projects focus on enhancing the health of the trees in the area. Efforts include loosening the soil surrounding Diag trees and applying compost to stimulate root health. The introduction of earthworms is also anticipated, providing natural aeration to improve soil conditions.

The completion of drainage and tree health projects is expected by October 17, 2023.

Student Reactions and Broader Impact

Students have expressed frustrations regarding the ongoing construction. For example, LSA freshman Claire Cowing highlighted the challenges encountered while navigating the area due to the various construction activities. Furthermore, construction on State Street has compounded these issues, with a complete closure between South University Avenue and East William Street until mid-November 2025 as part of the city’s Watermain and Resurfacing Project.

Additionally, Central Student Government President Eric Veal Jr. has raised concerns about how construction affects students’ experiences and accessibility on campus. This sentiment underscores the need for continuous dialogue regarding upcoming projects between the University and the student body, ensuring effective communication to minimize disruption.

Conclusion

The ongoing construction projects in the Diag at the University of Michigan represent significant efforts to enhance campus infrastructure. However, they are also creating challenges for students attempting to navigate the area, highlighting the balance necessary between campus improvement and daily usability.

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Additional Resources

• The Michigan Daily: Diag Construction
• Multi-Housing News: CRG Shapack Student Project
• YieldPro: Chapter Ann Arbor
• MLive: Move-in Closures and Roadwork
• Wikipedia: University of Michigan

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