Renovation/Relocation Update
As we look ahead to 2008, we have some exciting plans to begin the renovation of our five-story College of Nursing building to be named the Annette Poulson Cumming Building. We are working with AJC Architects this semester to program and plan for our new space configuration. The first and second floors of the building will be dedicated to serving students and meeting their learning needs. On the first level we will build out into the parking areas to create a full floor dedicated to the Intermountain Simulation Center. This space will be designed to simulate an inpatient hospital environment complete with the latest technology and computerized patient mannequins. The second floor will continue to be dedicated to student learning space showcasing the new auditorium and classrooms. Floors three, four and five will be faculty and staff offices and work space as well as administrative offices. The fifth floor Emma Eccles Jones Nursing Research Center will be expanded to respond to the success of our extramurally funded projects.
In addition to creating a new and improved working environment, we will be addressing several important structural and safety issues for our building. The heating and cooling system will be replaced entirely and the data/phone wiring will be brought up to new standards. The accessibility and safety issues will include required emergency exists, asbestos removal, fire codes and seismic reinforcements to the entire building.
During the construction, we have been advised to move out of the building. This is driven by a concern for our safety as well as the savings in time and construction costs if the building is vacant. Our plan is to move out of the building at the end of the Fall 2008 semester for the remainder of 2009. This will be a time to think creatively about our alternate space needs and to pilot test some telecommuting for distance-based education delivery. As we work together to help create the College of Nursing of the future, the Academic Leadership Team is working with me to plan for a smooth relocation and the organization of ongoing support and services to our students and faculty throughout this major renovation work. We are committed to finding acceptable temporary space for all faculty and staff. Our goal is to minimize program disruption and inconvenience during this transition to a wonderful new and improved College of Nursing building. We welcome your questions, thoughts and input as we plan for the future together.
