The UNC Board of Trustees approved a new design of Carrington Hall on July 26th. During the committee meeting, members discussed the changes in design and costs. 

In March 2023, university trustees approved the original design,which included an elongated structure and brick exterior. The new design will still include the same elongated structure but with a glass exterior, which aims to help with lighting and temperature control. 

The outer glass structure and extra windows will provide enhanced aesthetics and visuals for students inside. 

Carrington hall capital project design photo, side view.

The purpose of the project is to provide a more efficient and immersive educational center for nursing students. The redevelopment will focus on replacing the original 1969 wing of Carrington Hall with a new structure. 

The new building will provide more room, new classrooms, simulation and innovation space, study spaces, and faculty and staff offices. Carrington Hall, which is located off Medical Drive and South Columbia Street, is the current location for classes for nursing students.

Carrington Hall project renewal location and aerial view map.

 In the surrounding area beside the building there will be redevelopment including new patios, sidewalks, and lawn spaces. 

Around $65.2 million have been allocated for the project by the North Carolina General Assembly. An anticipated $19 million in the 2023 state budget will also go towards the capital improvement project. 

Operational costs are set to break even or remain neutral. Overall the total project budget is $94 million and is partially being funded through gifts and University trust funds. 

The new design changes will cost $2 million; however, the budget will not increase. According to Vice Chancellor for Finance and Operations Nathan Knuffman, expenses will be shifted off of the project and onto the School of Nursing. The school is prepared to fund the changes through fundraising. 

Demolition and construction of Carrington Hall’s improvements are set to start in Fall 2023. The updated building is set to be completed and ready to open in 2025 or 2026.

 

Featured image via UNC – Chapel Hill

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