Utility Work to Impact Campus Walkways West of Grand Boulevard this Fall

Except for some finishing work in the coming weeks, construction related to SLU’s utility infrastructure project that led to a number of walkway and sidewalk closures east of Grand Boulevard this summer has been completed. Now, the work is about to move westward.

As with the construction that took place east of Grand, crews will install new underground electrical and gas conduits, and other equipment to support SLU’s replacement of a 55-year-old electrical substation that supplies power to about one-third of the north campus.

Set-up and construction are scheduled to begin Monday, Sept 9. Work will be done in phases, starting at Grand, then moving west to Pius XII Memorial Library and finally south to Simon Recreation Center. Once an area of work is completed temporary fencing will be removed. Most walkways will remain accessible, though paths may be narrower.

The north entrance of Simon Rec will remain open when the work shifts that direction – accessible via the walkways that run east and west in front of the building – but patrons may want to use the south entrance to avoid any disruption.

Map of Walkway Closures and Pedestrian Access (PDF)

On the east side of Grand, the finishing work to walkways and sidewalks may create narrower lanes, but all of the pathways expected to remain open to foot traffic.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience this summer as we worked on this important project,” said Dustin Montgomery, assistant director of construction services. “We will continue to do everything we can to engage with the community and to minimize the disruption as the project heads west of Grand. We appreciate all of our campus partners.”

Tied to SLU’s strategic and campus master plans, the utility infrastructure project announced last fall is designed to reduce costs, save energy and position the University for future growth. The project’s timing is tied – in large part – to the construction of the new Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building, which opens in 2020.

Ameren is currently working on installing the new electrical substation in the parking lot behind Marchetti Towers. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, that work is on track to be completed by the end of November. Details about shifting north campus buildings from the old substation to the new one will be shared later this fall.

 Contacts

Dustin Montgomery
Assistant director, construction services
314-977-3228
dustin.montgomery@slu.edu

Dan Kruep
Project manager, construction services
314-977-6230
daniel.kruep@slu.edu