The Michael D. Rose Theatre and other construction projects around campus are coming to a close next semester.
The Michael D. Rose Theatre Lecture Hall is scheduled to be completed in late January or early February 2001, according to Physical Plant construction inspector Jack Phillips.
"There is work that still has to be completed," Phillips said. "In the interior, work lights, curtains and safety features have to be done.
"It depends on how fast the workers get the job done. Some of the work is being done by other contractors," Phillips said.
When completed, the theater will provide 25,000 feet square for speakers, movies and entertainment, according to the Campus Planning Office. The theater is connected to the field house and garage with a covered walkway.
Assistant vice president for Student Affairs and dean of students Dr. Bill Porter said the main auditorium will have 960 seats.
"Off of the main stage there will be a room to the side for events before or after an event," Porter said. "The theater will also have a concession area for whatever the sponsors of a performance or an event want to serve."
With the completion of the theater, the construction of the new bookstore has begun as part of the walkway from the new parking garage to the University Center.
The new building will include services such as a post office, copy center, bank and a convenience store. The main floor of the facility will contain the current bookstore, The University Store, which is located in the lower level of The University Center now.
University Store accounting manager Dianne Johnson said the plans for the new bookstore originally contained a coffee shop, but that information is not confirmed.
"The projected completion date for the bookstore is spring 2002," Johnson said.
In other construction projects, the reconstruction of the outdoor amphitheater between the Music and Communications facility is underway. According to the Campus Planning office, it was done to create an improved "front door" to the main campus mall. Construction is scheduled to extend into the spring 2001 semester.
Sound Fuzion member Candice Sheffield said their group used the former outdoor theater for concerts and rehearsals.
"I am ready for the new amphitheater," Sheffield said. "We can use the new space. It is fun performing outdoors."
Sophomore civil engineering major William Cotton said he would attend events in the new theaters.
"I would come to plays and concerts," Cotton said. "I think the new theaters will bring in non-students also from the outside community."
