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Construction Milestone; Framing & Installation Next

The second phase of the first floor remodel–demolition and excavation in the courtyard–is complete! The construction team has now moved to framing and installing support infrastructure.

By Jesus M. Rivera | Photography by Paul L. Newby, II

March 6, 2026

Greetings, Grainger Hall!

The second phase of the first floor remodel–demolition and excavation in the courtyard–is complete! The construction team has now moved to framing and installing support infrastructure. This phase is expected to cause some spontaneous noise, but daily disruption should be limited and temporary. We will continue to monitor for any disruptive noise this phase may cause and work closely with the contractor to minimize impact during peak class times.

To summarize what we can expect, please continue to monitor the progress of this timeline on the Badger Blueprint page, highlighting major activities to be aware.

Demolition

The final demolition efforts will involve blocking off various areas in hallways and department spaces on the second, third, fourth, and fifth floors. These efforts will be coordinated through public communication and/or directly with the department affected.

Courtyard Excavation & Foundations

Rough excavation is complete. Work will begin for the new mechanical room and foundation. Here’s what to expect in the coming months: 

  • Digging down to the first floor of the parking garage for a new mechanical room buildout.
  • Repairing and waterproofing the courtyard foundation.
  • Installing a crane.
  • The initial installation of the crane was shifted after further review of logistics and safety.
  • These discussions are ongoing, and we will provide further communication once further direction is given. 
  • Installing utilities to support the buildout. (Ongoing)

Framing & Infrastructure

Enclosing the courtyard, interior framing, and interior infrastructure is underway.

  • Installation of Framing
    • The top rail of the framing is expected to create vibration as it will be secured directly to the floor above.
      • This will be spontaneous and will quickly move locations as the construction team secures each run.
    • Floor Grinding
      • This is a disruptive activity, but we are working with the contractor to schedule this where it has the least impact.
  • Installation of Infrastructure
    • We have multiple locations where concrete coring will take place.
      • This is a disruptive activity, but we are working with the contractor to schedule this where it has the least impact.
    • A full building power shutdown is expected to tie in new electrical feeds.
      • We are coordinating this work for spring break and will send further communication as we get closer to that timeframe.
  • Enclosure of the Courtyard
    • Setting structural steel beams, installation of the steel frame for the new grand staircase, and securing steel to the existing building.
      • These are disruptive activities, but we are working with the contractor to schedule them where they have the least impact.

Finishes, Furniture, & Equipment 

  • Once framing and infrastructure are complete, the installation of finishes, furniture, and equipment (FFE) will begin, outfitting the space for use.

General information, progress photos, and timely updates can be found on the Badger Blueprint webpage. All urgent messages regarding disruption will be posted on the myBiz blog.

Please keep an eye out for these newsletters at the end of each major milestone listed in the timeline above.

Thank you,

Tim Bent Jr.