UNC announced two construction projects starting this past week. The university has begun work on a replacement for South Building’s roof, and it will close certain sections of sidewalk to construct an underground steam tunnel.

The first project, replacing South Building’s roof, started on Monday, May 12. UNC says they expect to complete the project by October. The main goal is to replace the building’s current roof with copper paneling. Other repairs and replacements will include fixing the roof deck, historic wood repair and painting, and gutter repairs.

Although the work is expected to take a few months, UNC says the South Building will remain open during that time. Fencing and scaffolding will be added to the outside of the building, but entrances will remain open with overhead protection installed to ensure student and faculty safety upon entrance.

South-side sidewalks along East Cameron Avenue will be closed for pedestrians, as well as nearby walkways. UNC asks that any foot traffic around this area remain vigilant regarding construction activity.

South Building roof replacement work zone and pedestrian route map

South Building roof replacement work zones and pedestrian detours. (Image via UNC Facilities Services)

That’s not the only stretch of sidewalk that UNC is temporarily closing. A section of sidewalk on South Columbia Street was first closed for construction on May 12, and will remain closed until Friday, June 20 as UNC constructs an underground a steam tunnel.

UNC says the areas closed include the sidewalk in front of Sitterson Hall, the Brooks Computer Science Building and the Naval Armory.

The Sitterson Hall bus stop has also been temporarily relocated as part of the construction. Riders can now catch the bus between Peabody Hall and Sitterson Hall, with UNC saying to visit the Chapel Hill Transit website or GoTriangle‘s site for more information.

Map of Columbia Street steam tunnel project work zones and sidewalk closures

Columbia Street sidewalk closures and alternative routes. (Image via UNC Facilities Services)

 

Featured photo via Aaron Keck/Chapel Hill Media Group.

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