Drew Hicks
Staff writer
Before the ink could dry on last fall’s final exams, WTAMU shut down the Classroom Center to begin a $16.2 million dollar renovation project.
Construction is running on schedule and should be complete by June 2009, according to Tadhi Hayes, director of engineering and architectural services.
Classes should begin fall 2009.
The renovation will have smart classroom technology and wireless Internet access.
“Overall, the rollout in the Amarillo Center went really well,” Andrew White, manager of open access and departmental computer facilities, said. “Expect to see more ITV classrooms every semester.”
After a 23 percent increase in freshman this fall, there is concern that these renovation efforts will not be enough to keep pace with higher enrollment.
“Throughout the planning stages, the increasing enrollment and the associated number of faculty and staff required were taken into consideration in determining the number of classrooms and offices spaces,” Hayes said. “The projected student population of 9,000 in 2010 was a beginning point.”
