City Council Update on Downtown...

Last Friday I provided City Council with a short synopsis on the status of the various elements of our downtown redevelopment efforts and given all the interest that the $20 million stimulus award generated throughout the community I thought it would be good to share it as a blog post as well. 

 1. PARTA Multi Modal Project – Following the $20 million award announcement from last week, a meeting has been set up for the engineers from all the respective agencies to begin to work through the $21 million grant application to figure out what aspects of the original request need to be cut out in order to stay within the $20 million budget.   A meeting has also been set up for next month (March) for the engineers to meet with the grant administrators/engineers from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to begin to discussions on the grant terms and agreement.  PARTA reports that their real estate representatives continue to work through the federal process for the land acquisition required for this project.  Kent State has set up a web link for the grant award at http://www.kent.edu/news/announcements/success/mulitmodaltransportationcenter.cfm, the City is updating our capital projects page to include PARTA project information, and PARTA is also planning to add a web information source for the project on their web site as well.

 2.  Downtown Redevelop Blueprint – With the recent progress made on agreeing to the esplanade extension with Kent State, receiving the Multi-Modal Center grant award, finalizing of the Collective Intent Agreements with the private developers, and the completion of the Phoenix Project, we felt it was a good time to go back to the downtown redevelopment blueprint and update it accordingly.  We have met a number of the existing business owners along Main Street to discuss their plans for expansion and we have offered the services of our planning consultant to reflect those plans on the revised downtown blueprint.  As part of this effort we plan to re-convene the public stakeholders committee in the next month (March-April) to provide an update and receive feedback.  The members of the former Kent State University Citizens Advisory Transportation Committee will also be invited to the stakeholder meeting since they were active in the multi-modal project design and advocacy.  

3.  Development Agreements – I believe we will be in a position to have the Collective Intent Agreement signed in the next week so we have engaged the legal staff to prepare the Development Agreements that will serve as the legal documents for the downtown projects.  To that end we have also had a couple of meetings with the School District to begin to discuss the use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for the project.  Our tentative target dates for the Development Agreements and TIF Agreements are the Summer of 2010.   We have advised the private developers to plan to attend the March Planning Commission meeting for a conceptual presentation of the various elements of the project.  We would expect the developers to submit their site plans for formal Planning Commission review in May 2010.  

4.  City Property in the Development Block – We are working to set a March closing date to purchase the last remaining parcels of private property from Mr. Arthur.  In addition, we have contacted Dominion Gas to begin outlining a plan to get their gas sub-station relocated out of the block.  Dan Smith has talked with the tenants of the currently rented properties in the block and advised them that we they need to begin to make preparations to find new business locations this summer so that we can proceed with our plans to initiate more building demolition perhaps as early as Fall 2010.  We are currently having the buildings evaluated for any special environmental handling in preparation for demolition.  The City and the University have drafted terms for a land exchange agreement and we have employed an appraiser to prepare the necessary land transaction documents. 

Kent State Construction Projects Update...

The Kent State University’s Architects Office periodically sends out an updated list of all the projects that they have underway and in the planning stages for the Kent campus and all the regional campuses.  I’m lucky enough to be on their distribution list and I’m happy to share the update here. 

CONSTRUCTION ALERT  February 2010

From the Office of the University Architect

Risman Plaza Construction Commences Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Construction to renovate Risman Plaza is scheduled to begin this week and work will progress around the plaza in sections throughout winter, spring, and summer until the end of August. The plaza will be enhanced to become a more inviting space for students, faculty and staff to meet, study, relax and attend events.

Beginning Tuesday, February 23, 2010, work will begin on the new Risman Plaza Transit Shelter (located on the south side of the Kiva). The construction crew will install fencing around the perimeter of the jobsite. Work on this portion of the project is anticipated to continue through the remainder of Spring Semester. Although it should not disrupt pedestrian or vehicular traffic, please exercise caution while traveling around the plaza and observe construction detour signage to avoid this construction zone.

Updates will be provided to you as this project progresses and moves around to other sections of the plaza.

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UPDATE ON DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: JANUARY 2010
Spring and summer heavy construction activities are quickly approaching as project designs are being finalized and construction documents are being assembled to advertise for competitive bidding. Across Kent State’s eight campuses, here are the major facility and infrastructure improvements being administered by the Office of the University Architect:

PROJECTS UNDER CONSTRUCTION:

Ashtabula Health and Science Building
The newly-built, two story, 55,000 sf Robert S. Morrison Health and Science Building opened for Fall Semester 2009 at Ashtabula Campus. The new facility houses the Nursing Program, Occupational Therapy, Radiation Technology, science laboratories, general classrooms and offices. At the west end of campus, a new student parking lot was added to accommodate the new building. Commissioning and punch list items need to be completed.

Centennial Research Park Roof Replacement
The original roof over Centennial Research Park will be replaced this winter. Work commenced in December and continues through winter.

District Chilled Water Expansion Phase II
Currently under construction, this project involves addition of VFDs to the system, along with replacement of three-way valves with two-way valves. Work involves updating controls, wiring of the VFDs, and installation and removal of valves, piping and hardware. Construction is scheduled to be completed early spring in time for the cooling season.

Electrical Distribution System Upgrades – Medium Voltage Loop 8B
The medium voltage loop 8B (Nixon, Terrace and Verder halls and Art Annex) and the electrical power metering system were upgraded and connected to the Power Plant. This project is at the punch list stage and is nearing completion.

Geauga Student Parking Lot Improvements, Phase 2
At Geauga Campus, phase 2 parking lot improvements involve installation of a detention pond for storm water management. Work commences on-site in April and will continue through June.

Heer and Harbourt Halls Roof Replacement
The roofing systems on Heer and Harbourt halls will be removed and replaced. Construction commenced in late December and continues through spring.

McGilvrey Hall Labs 131B and 341 Renovations
The fume hood systems in McGilvrey Hall labs 131B and 341 will be renovated to be compatible with chemicals proposed for use by a new faculty member. These renovations include, but are not limited to, new acid-resistant fume hoods and exhaust systems. On-site construction commences on February 1.

Music and Speech Center Renovations and Additions – Roe Green Center
Music and Speech Center is being renovated and additions built to address space and program needs for the School of Theatre and Dance. One addition will provide a new lobby and black box experimental theatre on the Theatre Drive face of the building; this will also provide an enhanced entry area for students and event patrons. On the west side of the building, another addition is being constructed to provide three new dance studios and support space to relocate the Dance Program out of the MACC Annex. The Theatre addition is closed-in with all exterior building work complete. Construction continues inside with drywall, rough electrical, heating and cooling system work and the closing-in of the control room and support areas. The new Theatre lobby is enclosed with plumbing and electrical work commencing, followed by drywall and finishes to be installed in the spring. The Dance studios and support areas are ready for wall finishes and painting, while the locker and restrooms are nearing completion, since the ceramic tile has been installed. This project is on schedule to be completed this May.

Tuscarawas Performing Arts Center
A new Performing Arts Center is being constructed at the Tuscarawas Campus. This new facility is located adjacent to the existing Founder’s Hall and includes a 1,100 seat theatre, classrooms for the art programs, offices, stage and stage support areas. Installation of structural steel and underground utility work and rough-in of interior utilities continue. The educational wing, theater tower, the main house, the lobby, and back-of-house areas are all under construction. Completion is expected late fall.

Verder Hall New Hydraulic Elevator
Verder Hall’s original elevator will be removed and replaced with a new, roped, hydraulic elevator in a new hoistway shaft on the exterior of the building. Contracts were recently awarded and on-site construction will commence on May 17.

CONTRACT AWARDS PENDING:

Centennial Greens and Manchester Field Lawn Irrigation
Lawn irrigation systems will be installed in order to water Centennial Greens and Manchester Field. The contract award is pending for the irrigation bids that were opened on January 21.

McDowell Hall Toilet and Shower Room Rehabilitation
Due to aging infrastructure, plumbing systems and fixtures in the bathrooms of McDowell Hall will be rehabilitated. Architectural finishes, electrical and HVAC work in these areas will also be replaced. Contract awards are pending for construction bids that were opened on December 16 and the General Trades Contract re-bids that were opened on January 21. Construction is scheduled for completion during the summer.

Risman Plaza Renovations, Phase 1
This project is the initial phase of a multi-phased project to improve the university’s landscape and hardscape. The primary focus of the construction for this phase will be the Risman Plaza and surrounding areas. Renovations will include improvements to landscaping, paving, lighting, site furnishings, drainage and pedestrian walkways. The contract awards are pending for construction bids that were opened on January 12.

Trumbull Library Fire Alarm Upgrade
At Trumbull Campus the fire alarm system will be upgraded with a new, addressable, voice-type system in the Link Building, Library, and Technology addition. The contract award was approved by the Controlling Board and is now awaiting the release of construction funds from the Office of Budget and Management. Work is anticipated to start mid-spring semester and continue into summer.

PROJECTS ADVERTISED FOR BIDDING:

Williams Hall Lab 223 HVAC Improvements
The HVAC system in laboratory 223 of Williams Hall will be upgraded. Contractors” bids for construction will be opened on February 16.

Kent Student Center Masonry Repairs
The masonry overhang at the third floor balcony level of the Student Center is in need of repair. Poor detailing in the original design has led to failure of the bottom edge of this overhang, and a reinforcing lintel will be retrofitted over the 280 ft. length. Contractors’ bids for construction will be opened on February 22. Work will begin in the spring as soon as weather permits. Until repairs are completed, the outside balcony will be closed.

Residence Halls ADA Improvements
Construction will commence this summer to bring specific areas of Centennial Court, Prentice Hall, and Beall Hall into compliance with current Federal ADA requirements that will provide better accessibility in those areas for students and staff. Contractors’ bids for construction will be opened on February 23.

PROJECTS UNDER DESIGN:

Child Development Center Reroof and Research One Shingled Roof
Existing shingles on the roofs of the Child Development Center and the Research One Building will be removed and replaced with new roofing systems which include ice guards, venting, fall protection equipment and roofing accessories. A design firm is assessing the extent of the ceiling repairs and insulation supplementation and/or replacement.

East Liverpool Classroom Building Restroom Renovations
Three sets of men’s and women’s restrooms in the Classroom Building will be renovated. Restrooms will be modified to conform to the current ADA codes, with new floor and wall tile, ceiling and lights, plumbing fixtures and toilet compartments, countertops and toilet accessories.

Geauga Student Parking Lot Improvements, Phase 3
At Geauga Campus, phase 3 of this project involves parking lot improvements and construction of a transit center to the south parking areas. This work will be bid and constructed during summer.

Kent Multimodal Transportation Center
Kent State, the city of Kent and the Portage Area Regional Transportation Authority, via a Federal Transportation Administration grant, conducted a planning study for construction of a Multimodal Transportation Center in the city. The proposed center incorporates parking, mass transportation, pedestrians and bicycles into one central facility designed to promote and increase transit, pedestrian and bicycle access to the university and downtown Kent. This project is in the schematic design phase.

Library Main Floor Renovations
The circulation desk area and main entry lobby at the first floor of the Library will be renovated. Currently under design, construction is anticipated to commence in May.

MAC Center Athletic Academic Resource Center Expansion
An addition has been funded to expand the existing MAC Center Athletic Academic Resource Center. Architectural and engineering firms are currently designing this project.

Music and Speech Center Parking Lot Renovation
A study is underway to plan the renovation of the existing parking lot at the Music and Speech Center. The goals of the project are to rehabilitate the lighting, renovate or replace the existing parking lot pavement including curbs, walks and asphalt surfaces as well as improve pedestrian circulation through the lot.

New Facilities for the College of Technology – Programming / Site Selection
Constructed in 1951 and in need of complete rehabilitation, Van Deusen Hall houses the College of Technology and portions of the School of Art. An architectural firm assessed the current configuration and needs of the building and investigated the rehabilitation or the construction of a new facility for the College of Technology. The project design should achieve LEED Silver Certification and comply with House Bill 251 reduced energy consumption requirements. The final study was presented to the administration.

New Facilities for the Schools of Art and Visual Communication Design – Programming / Site Selection
Constructed in 1972 and at the end of its useful life, the Art Building houses the School of Art and the School of Visual Communication Design. An architectural design firm assessed the current configuration and needs of the building and investigated a complete rehabilitation of other campus buildings and/or the construction of a new facility for these two programs. The project design should achieve LEED Silver Certification and comply with House Bill 251 reduced energy consumption requirements. The final study was presented to the administration.

Schwartz Center Restroom Renovations, Phase 2
The centrally located restrooms at the south portion of the Schwartz Center will be renovated similar to the Schwartz Center Admissions Restroom Renovations Project. Architectural and engineering firms are in process of designing this project.

Stark Science Building
Until a new dean is appointed at Stark Campus and has the opportunity to participate in planning this project, designs are currently on hold to build a 30,000 sf building to support the Science Program. This building will accommodate science teaching and research laboratories and a portion of the east wing will be renovated to accommodate the expanding Nursing Program.

Stark and Tuscarawas Campus-Wide Energy Conservation Project
The Office of the University Architect and Energy Conservation committee selected an energy service company for a performance contract to enable Stark and Tuscarawas campuses to comply with House Bill 251 energy use reduction goals with provisions under House Bill 7 for payback of project cost with verified energy savings over a maximum 10-year time period. Acquisition of funding and negotiations with the energy service company are underway.

Stewart Hall Renovations for the Relocation of Information Services
This project involves planning, design and construction to renovate Stewart Hall for the consolidation of Information Services groups campuswide into one facility.

Summit Street Sidewalk Extension
The campus sidewalk along Summit Street will be extended from the C-Science parking lot southeast to the bus stop in front of the Parking Maintenance Building to provide safe access to the campus for off-campus students. Included will be alternates to extend the sidewalk and provide lighting to Sieberling Drive, Summit East parking lot. This project is under design.

Trumbull Classroom Building Lobby Handrails and Lighting
Handrails, ceilings and lighting will be replaced in the Main Lobby of the Kent State University at Trumbull Classroom Building to match the renovated area adjacent to the Lobby. This project will replace the handrails to bring them into compliance with the current building code. The lighting and ceilings will be upgraded to more energy-efficient and modern lighting fixtures that will allow for easier maintenance.

Trumbull Classroom Building Restroom Renovations
Two sets of men’s and women’s restrooms in the Classroom Building and 1 set in the Library-Theater Building will be renovated. Restrooms will be modified to conform to the current ADA codes, with new floor and wall tile, ceiling and lights, plumbing fixtures and toilet compartments, countertops and toilet accessories.

Trumbull Classroom Building Storefront Replacement
All entrance doors and storefront windows at the perimeter of the Trumbull Classroom Building will be replaced. This will improve building security at the entrances and improve energy-efficiency by changing the doors and windows to insulated glazing and thermally-broken entrance systems.

Trumbull Public Safety, Security, and Environmental Health Institute
A study was completed to provide a preliminary program and conceptual renderings for a Public Safety, Security, and Environmental Health Institute at Trumbull Campus. The building would be a multi-purpose facility used for educational and training purposes by the Trumbull Campus, the Trumbull Career and Tech Center, local fire and safety agencies, local public health departments, and non-profit organizations, and public utilities.

White Hall Parking Lot Improvements
Perimeter landscape and lighting improvements are being planned for White Hall R-16 parking lot. Currently under design, this project will be advertised for bidding late winter.

WKSU Renovations and Additions
The WKSU Broadcast Center is comprised of offices, broadcast studios, and broadcast support areas, including a media library, computer areas, and recording studio. This project will renovate spaces and new space will be added to the existing building to address changes in media, technology and the broadcast field. The level of funds raised will determine the schedule for proceeding with further development of the design and construction of this project. This project has been placed on hold.

SELECTING FIRMS FOR: 

Facility Planning and Scheduling Services
Recognizing the importance of state-of-the-art facilities, Kent State University is poised to undertake an extensive program of improvement to its campus facilities. A previously-commissioned study identified approximately $350M in deferred renewal needs for existing buildings. Additionally, new facilities may be required to meet the programmatic requirements in some academic areas. The Kent State University Board of Trustees authorized the administration to pursue approximately $200M in bond funding to finance this initiative. The goal of this project is to work with the administration and facilities offices to provide an overall implementation plan for this enterprise encompassing campus planning, facility assessment, programming, estimating and scheduling/sequencing of the work. Specific building and renovation projects will be identified in this project and subsequent, separate Requests for Qualifications for those actual construction projects will be issued. The Office of the University Architect is currently reviewing qualifications of firms interested in this project.

Multiple Buildings Envelope Repairs and Roof Replacements
Building envelope repairs and roof replacements will be conducted on multiple buildings on the Kent Campus, as well as the Regional Campuses, over the next three years. The specific scope and budget of each individual project varies by building. Six buildings have been identified in current planning, but additional buildings may be added to the overall project at a later date. These buildings are: Smith Hall (1968), Science Research Lab Building (1986), Williams Hall (1967), Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center (1950), MACC Annex (1977), McGilvrey Hall (1940), and the Kent Student Center (1971). Due to the scope of the projects and schedule requirements, the university will select more than one firm to complete the proposed projects. The Office of the University Architect has interviewed firms for several roofing projects and is still in the process of selecting firms for other roofing projects.

Salem Building Expansions and Additions
Until February 5, the Office of the University Architect is accepting qualifications from architectural firms interested in assisting with designing this project. The Gymnasium at Salem Campus will be converted to accommodate the Nursing Program on the lower level and a shelled-out space on the upper level that will, in the future, be finished out to house the new science laboratories. New faculty offices will also be created on the lower level.
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Project information can be found on the Office of the University Architect’s Web site at:  www.kent.edu/universityarchitect/

Please Note: Any significant changes that will impact pedestrian or vehicular movement on the Kent Campus will be posted as a top news story on Kent State University’s home page.

Jacqueline S. Mest
Contracts Manager
Kent State University Office of the University Architect
Suite 334 Lowry Hall, 750 Hilltop Drive, P.O. Box 5190
Kent, Ohio 44242-0001
voice: 330.672.7992 e-mail: jmest@kent.edu
switchboard: 330.672.3880; fax: 330.672.2648
Web site: http://www.kent.edu/universityarchitect/

Make Sure You Get Counted — Take the 2010 Ce...

Every 10 years we get a chance to be counted so you don’t want to miss your chance in 2010 because you won’t get another one until 2020.  The 2010 Census is run by the Federal Government but its not a Washington DC thing — its a Kent thing that will go a long way in determining what Washington will send our way in the next 10 years.   

A group of Kent State students have made promoting the 2010 Census as a team project and they’ve asked for a little help from me to get Census information posted on Kent360.  I’m happy to oblige.

The city of Kent, along with Kent State University, will celebrate Count Kent in a Flash 2010 U.S. Census Awareness Week from February 21 through February 28.

KSU’s Public Relations Student Society of America’s Bateman team will host various events throughout the week in the community, as well as on campus, to inform, educate and motivate individuals to fill out the 2010 census. Come win prizes, have fun and learn how you can make a difference in Kent.

• It’s important. Every year, the federal government allocates more than $300 billion to states and communities based on census data. An accurate census count is vital to our communities’ well-being by helping planners determine where to locate schools, day care centers, roads and public transportation, hospitals and other facilities.
• You count. Every completed form equates to about $1,000 of federal funding for the Kent community.
• It’s quick. 2010 census form is the shortest in history – only takes about ten minutes to complete ten questions.

Confirmed events for Count Kent in a Flash 2010 U.S. Census Awareness Week are as followed:

• Monday, Feb. 22: noon-2p.m.; 5-7p.m.- Census information table at Student Recreation and Wellness Center
• Wednesday, Feb. 24:
  • Noon-1:30p.m. Soup and Substance program, Room 206, Kent Student Center
  • Noon- Cultural Dialogues, Room 215, White Hall
  • 2-4 p.m.- Informational booth at Student Center
  • 7p.m. (doors open at 5:30p.m.)- Kent v. Akron women’s basketball game
• Thursday, Feb. 25: Jay Sean concert, MAC Center; doors open at 7p.m., concert starts at 8
• Friday, Feb. 26: 8p.m. - Comedian John Caparulo at the Rathskeller, located in the basement of the Student Center.

An accurate census count depends on every Kent resident completing and returning their census form. Forms will be sent out starting in March.

To learn more about Census Awareness Week events, visit the Bateman team’s Facebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/2010-US-Census-Kent-State-University/278600670781?ref=ts

You can also check out the 2010 U.S. Census- Kent State University or blog at http://prssakentstate.wordpress.com/.

$20 Million Awarded for Downtown Kent Project...

It’s not everyday that the Federal Government hands out checks but in this new age of federal stimulus funds being used to spark the economy, the Feds knocked on Kent’s door last week, saying they were here to help, and with a pocket full of $20 million with PARTA, Kent State’s and the City’s name on it we opened the door and let’em in.  By now you’ve probably heard all the details of how Congressman Ryan’s Office and the entire Washington delegation went to bat for Kent and in this case hit the ball out of the park in Babe Ruth fashion.  It was one of those once in a hundred years legacy moments that you can tell your grandchildren you were here to see. 

______________________________________________________________________________________

Here’s the reaction in the room when Congressman Ryan announced the Kent award:

This money will be a game changer.  All the project aspirations for downtown Kent just got catapulted forward and should now be within reach over the next 2 years.   

We knew we had a great project in the downtown multi-modal facility; we knew we met all the criteria for the funds but we also knew that the competition for Federal funds was going to be fierce.  Seriously fierce.  In Ohio alone over $550 million in funding requests were submitted and at the end of the day only $50 million was awarded in Ohio — $20 million of which was the Kent project.  For that matter only 51 projects were funded nationwide and Kent is one of them.

How did it happen?  It happened because of the power of partnerships.  When we thanked Senator Brown’s Office for their support and they said that they were happy to help but they added candidly that the Kent project didn’t need much help, it stood on its own merits — it was that good.  It happened because it linked education, research and economic development with transit and green technology and bike trials and sustainable planning all wrapped up in a public private package  that promised new jobs, new stores, and new cultural opportunities not just for Kent but for all of northeast Ohio. 

Here’s a panoramic view of all the partners:

We told the Feds that we wanted to put Kent’s assets to work not just for Kent but for all of Ohio.  Apparently they liked the sound of that as much as we did.  Here’s some great sources of information to learn more about these funds.

Federal News Announcement and List

Tiger Grant Awards

KSU Multi-Media Project Page

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For your information, previous news coverage on the downtown Kent revitalization projects:

Akron Beacon Journal:  http://www.ohio.com/news/83843837.html

Clevelan Plain Dealer:  http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2009/11/downtown_kent_ohio_rising_phoe.html

Cleveland Plain Dealer:  http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2009/11/can_kent_ohio_become_the_next.html

Akron Beacon Journal:  http://www.ohio.com/news/64701597.html

Crains Business Magazine:  http://www.crainscleveland.com/article/20091102/FREE/311029963

Crains Business Magazine:  http://www.crainscleveland.com/article/20091102/FREE/311029955

Record Courier Newspaper:  http://www.recordpub.com/news/article/4698205

Record Courier Newspaper: http://www.recordpub.com/news/article/4773843

Record Courier Newspaper:  http://www.recordpub.com/news/article/4772064

Record Courier Newspaper:  http://www.recordpub.com/news/article/4772141

Record Courier Newspaper:  http://www.recordpub.com/news/article/4698205

Kent State Construction Plans Bring New Tax Dollar...

I was thrilled to read that the Board of Trustees for Kent State University approved a $250 million bond issue for campus construction activity at their quarterly meeting last month.  As someone that sees the campus as one of the City’s biggest selling points to attracting new businesses and residents to join us here in Kent, I figure a one-quarter of a billion dollar investment is bound to have dramatic impact on how the campus looks — and the better it looks the better Kent looks. 

But not to be overlooked is the amount of new tax dollars that $250 million will bring to the City at at time when we could really use a boost.  Kent State, as a public university, doesn’t have to pay property taxes but keep in mind that the City only gets about 10 cents on the dollar of paid property taxes — most of the property taxes go to the school system.   But what the City does get is 100% of the income taxes and anytime there’s a jump in employment in Kent, including on the Kent State campus, we see a favorable bump in our revenues which is why we’re a bit giddy over $250 million in capital construction and all the jobs that will bring.

I talked with our engineers who manage capital projects to get a feel for how much of the $250 million is likely going to translate into new payroll which translates into income taxes.  The rule of thumb for construction work is that approximately half of the project costs are in personnel payroll. 

Using that logic, then we might anticipate an injection of $125 million in new payroll which at the City’s 2% tax rate equates to $2,500,000 in new income taxes.  Admittedly this new cash will be a one time bump in payroll receipts but $2.5 million is about 22% of our total income taxes in a given year so that’s a big bump even if it is just temporary.   

The other thing to keep in mind is that no matter how aggressive KSU hopes to be in it’s capital construction plans, it won’t spend all $250 million in one year, so the income tax receipts will also not be received in one year.  However, when KSU issues the bonds arbitrage rules will require them to spend those dollars within the next 5 years so the worst case is the income tax receipts of $2.5 million are spread over 5 years – a $500,000 increase a year for 5 years.   That’s still a 4.5% increase in income tax revenues for 5 years straight which in this economic climate is almost unheard of.

_______________________________________________________________________

I haven’t seen the list of projects that make up that $250 million number but I do have a list of construction projects that KSU has underway right now — here’ s that list provided by the KSU Architect’s Office:

UPDATE ON CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Across Kent State’s eight campuses, here are the major facility and infrastructure improvements administered by the Office of the University Architect:

PROJECTS UNDER CONSTRUCTION:

CE&O FLEET SERVICES RELOCATION
Last fall, Fleet Services moved out of its original location in order to make more space available for potential tenants of Centennial Research Park. An addition to house Fleet Services is being built on the north end of Campus Environment and Operations. The foundation work for the addition is complete and the shell was installed. The interior build-out package is nearing completion and is slated to be completed in early December. Mechanical and electrical systems are currently being installed.

 DISTRICT CHILLED WATER EXPANSION, PHASE 2
Currently under construction, this project involves addition of VFDs to the chilled water system, along with replacement of three-way valves with two-way valves. Work involves updating controls, wiring of the VFDs, and installation and removal of valves, piping and hardware. Construction is scheduled to be completed early spring in time for the 2010 cooling season.

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM UPGRADES
ADDITIONS TO MEDIUM VOLTAGE LOOP 8B
The medium voltage loop 8B (Nixon, Terrace and Verder halls) and the electrical power metering system are being upgraded and connected to the Power Plant. Most of the electrical equipment has been set in place; equipment for the Art Annex will be set in place during winter break. Some remaining 5kV cabling is being removed to clear a path for the return portion of the new 13.2kv cabling to the Power Plant. The short medium voltage cable runs from the sectionalizing switches to the Art Annex, Verder and Terrace halls are complete. Nixon Hall has been converted to the new distribution system; power outages scheduled during winter break will convert the Art Annex, Verder and Terrace halls. This project continues through March 2010.

MUSIC & SPEECH CENTER RENOVATIONS & ADDITIONS
ROE GREEN CENTER
Music and Speech Center is being renovated and additions built to address space and program needs for the School of Theatre and Dance. One addition will provide a new lobby and black box experimental theatre on the Theatre Drive face of the building; this will also provide an enhanced entry area for students and event patrons. On the west side of the building, another addition is being constructed to provide three new dance studios and support space to relocate the Dance Program out of the MACC Annex. The exterior envelopes of both of the additions are progressing, as masonry work proceeds at a visible pace. In the theatre addition, wall framing has commenced, and plumbing and electrical systems are being roughed-in; roofing is underway. In the dance addition, installation of the exterior masonry veneer and roofing are underway. The project is expected to be weather tight by the end of November. Phased interior renovations are on-going in the existing building. Concrete and asphalt paving site work along Theatre Drive will be complete by late November.

SCHWARTZ CENTER ADMISSIONS LOBBY IMPROVEMENTS
Improvements to the Schwartz Center lobby are currently underway. New finishes, signage and furnishings have been provided and work is nearing completion. Additional flooring and lighting has been ordered and should be installed in December.

SCHWARTZ CENTER ADMISSIONS RESTROOM RENOVATIONS
The restrooms in the Admissions Department in the Schwartz Center are being renovated. Tile is currently being set, and then plumbing fixtures will be installed. Restrooms should be completed by the end of November.

 CONTRACT AWARDS PENDING:

CENTENNIAL RESEARCH PARK ROOF REPLACEMENT
The original roof over Centennial Research Park will be replaced this fall/winter. The roofing contract is being processed for final approval by the Ohio Attorney General’s office.

HEER & HARBOURT HALLS ROOF REPLACEMENT
The roofing systems on Heer and Harbourt halls will be removed and replaced. The contract award is pending for construction bids that were opened on October 9.

PROJECTS ADVERTISED FOR BIDDING:

McDOWELL HALL TOILET & SHOWER ROOM REHABILITATION
Due to aging infrastructure, plumbing systems and fixtures in the bathrooms of McDowell Hall will be rehabilitated. Architectural finishes, electrical and HVAC work in these areas will also be replaced. Contractors’ bids for construction will be opened on December 9. Construction will be scheduled for completion during the summer of 2010.

VERDER HALL NEW HYDRAULIC ELEVATOR
Verder Hall’s original elevator will be removed and replaced with a new, roped, hydraulic elevator in a new hoistway shaft on the exterior of the building. Contractors’ bids for construction will be opened on December 15.

CENTENNIAL GREENS & MANCHESTER FIELD LAWN IRRIGATION
Lawn irrigation systems will be installed in order to water Centennial Greens and Manchester Field. Bids for construction that were opened on October 6 were rejected; this project will be re-bid at a later date; please watch for addendum with a modified scope and budget and new bid opening date.

 PROJECTS UNDER DESIGN:

 CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER REROOF & RESEARCH ONE SHINGLED ROOF
Existing shingles on the roofs of the Child Development Center and the Research One Building will be removed and replaced with new roofing systems which include ice guards, venting, fall protection equipment and roofing accessories. A design firm is assessing the extent of the ceiling repairs and insulation supplementation and/or replacement. 

KENT MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION CENTER
Kent State, the city of Kent and the Portage Area Regional Transportation Authority, via a Federal Transportation Administration grant, conducted a planning study for construction of a Multimodal Transportation Center in the city. The proposed center incorporates parking, mass transportation, pedestrians and bicycles into one central facility designed to promote and increase transit, pedestrian and bicycle access to the university and downtown Kent. This project is proceeding into the schematic design phase.

KENT STUDENT CENTER MASONRY REPAIRS
An engineering firm is preparing drawings to bid repairs to the masonry overhang at the third floor balcony level of the Student Center. Poor detailing in the original design has led to failure of the bottom edge of this overhang, and a reinforcing lintel will be retrofitted over the 280 ft. length. Work will begin in the spring as soon as weather permits. Until repairs are completed, the outside balcony will be closed.

LIBRARY MAIN FLOOR RENOVATIONS
The circulation desk area and main entry lobby at the first floor of the Library will be renovated. The Office of the University Architect will be interviewing architectural and engineering firms to assist with designing this project. Construction is anticipated to commence May 2010.

MAC CENTER ATHLETIC ACADEMIC RESOURCE CENTER EXPANSION
An addition has been funded to expand the existing MAC Center Athletic Academic Resource Center. Architectural and engineering firms are currently being selected to assist with designing this project.

MULTIPLE BUILDINGS ENVELOPE REPAIRS & ROOF REPLACEMENTS
The university plans on implementing building envelope repairs and roof replacements on multiple buildings on the Kent Campus, as well as the Regional Campuses, over the next three years. The specific scope and budget of each individual project varies by building. Six buildings have been identified in current planning, but additional buildings may be added to the overall project at a later date. These buildings are: Smith Hall (1968), Science Research Lab Building (1986), Williams Hall (1967), Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center (1950), MACC Annex (1977), McGilvrey Hall (1940), and the Kent Student Center (1971). Due to the scope of the projects and schedule requirements, the university may elect to select more than one firm to complete the proposed projects. The Office of the University Architect is currently reviewing qualifications from firms interested in designing these projects.

NEW FACILITIES FOR THE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
PROGRAMMING / SITE SELECTION
Constructed in 1951 and in need of complete rehabilitation, Van Deusen Hall houses the College of Technology and portions of the School of Art. An architectural firm assessed the current configuration and needs of the building and investigated the rehabilitation or the construction of a new facility for the College of Technology. The project design should achieve LEED Silver Certification and comply with House Bill 251 reduced energy consumption requirements. The final study will be presented to the administration by the end of the year.

NEW FACILITIES FOR THE SCHOOLS OF ART AND VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN
PROGRAMMING / SITE SELECTION
Constructed in 1972 and at the end of its useful life, the Art Building houses the School of Art and the School of Visual Communication Design. An architectural design firm assessed the current configuration and needs of the building and investigated a complete rehabilitation of other campus buildings and/or the construction of a new facility for these two programs. The project design should achieve LEED Silver Certification and comply with House Bill 251 reduced energy consumption requirements. The final study will be presented to the administration by the end of the year.

PORTHOUSE THEATRE PARKING LOT EXPANSION
At Porthouse Theatre, the existing site and parking area were evaluated in effort to maximize spaces within the paved area. A new, gravel parking area, accommodating 46 additional spaces, and new walkway will be constructed. Also, a new retention basin is being planned for future development when the new lot is expanded and paved.

RISMAN PLAZA RENOVATIONS, PHASE 1
This project is the initial phase of a multi-phased project to improve the university’s landscape and hardscape. The primary focus of the construction for this phase will be the Risman Plaza and surrounding areas. Renovations will include improvements to landscaping, paving, lighting, site furnishings, drainage and pedestrian walkways. This project has moved from schematic design to the construction document stage. This project should be advertised soon in order to open construction bids in January.

SCHWARTZ CENTER RESTROOM RENOVATIONS, PHASE 2
The centrally located restrooms at the south portion of the Schwartz Center will be renovated similar to the Schwartz Center Admissions Restroom Renovations Project. Architectural and engineering firms were recently selected to design this project.

STEWART HALL RENOVATIONS FOR THE RELOCATION OF INFORMATION SERVICES
This project involves planning, design and construction to renovate Stewart Hall for the consolidation of Information Services groups campuswide into one facility.

 SUMMIT STREET SIDEWALK EXTENSION
The campus sidewalk along Summit Street will be extended from the C-Science parking lot southeast to the bus stop in front of the Parking Maintenance Building to provide safe access to the campus for off-campus students. Included will be alternates to extend the sidewalk and provide lighting to Sieberling Drive, Summit East parking lot. This project is in the design development stage.

WHITE HALL PARKING LOT IMPROVEMENTS
Perimeter landscape and lighting improvements are being planned for White Hall R-16 parking lot. Currently in the construction document stage, this project will be advertised to open construction bids early next year.

WILLIAMS HALL LAB 223 HVAC IMPROVEMENTS
The HVAC system in laboratory 223 of Williams Hall will be upgraded. Currently this project is under design.

WKSU RENOVATIONS & ADDITIONS
The WKSU Broadcast Center is comprised of offices, broadcast studios, and broadcast support areas, including a media library, computer areas, and recording studio. This project will renovate spaces and new space will be added to the existing building to address changes in media, technology and the broadcast field. The level of funds raised will determine the schedule for proceeding with further development of the design and construction of this project.

____________________

Project information can be found on the Office of the University Architect’s Web site at:

http://www1.kent.edu/universityarchitect/

Tuning Up For the Kent Folk Festival...

In the cultural and entertainment industries everybody is always angling for their niche and a bigger piece of the proverbial pie. From sports to music, there’s money in them thar’ hills and communities are digging like crazy to find the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.  One of the pots that Kent owns is the annual Kent State Folk Festival.  Folk music continues to have a loyal following and the annual pilgrammage to Kent is set to run November 5th through November 14th.  It’s a great week to showcase new and proven talent — in the comforts of downtown Kent’s intimate music venues.

Folk music legends and rising stars too numerous to count will make the journey to Kent for the Kent State folk festival running from Thursday November 5th through Saturday November 14th.  2009 marks the 43rd year of this festival which offers a mix of musical events.  Over the years an array of legendary artists have made appearances including Roger McGuinn, Bob Dylan, Doc Watson and Donovan. 

Although the event brings out some legends the best part is showcasing new talent.  The emerging artist scene represents a lot of new indie bands that attract people in their 20s and 30s.  

The 10 day concert line-up brings 16,000 guests to Kent and features Folk Alley ’Round Town which is one night of admission free performances scattered around 35 different venues in downtown Kent, ranging from bars and coffee shops to galleries and bakeries.  Folk alley is a free flowing folk music extravaganza. 

Kent has a rich history of music performances and the Folk Festival adds to the lore year after year.  Don’t miss it. 

Here’s the official web site for the event:  Folk Festival

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