Students may be wondering what the construction around campus is for. The various marked areas are part of an extensive drainage improvement project that has been in the works over the past several months.
Daneil Fiskeaux is the assistant director of design with WCU’s Facilities Management. Fiskeaux explained the renovations that are underway.
During heavy rainfall, poor drainage created large puddles and standing water across campus. These conditions caused brick pavers to shift creating tripping hazards. 
The areas surrounding Blue Ridge Residence Hall, Balsam Residence Hall and Courtyard Dining Hall were most affected by this issue.
“The objective of the Central Plaza Drainage and Landscape Improvements project is to repair the subsurface base conditions beneath the brick pavers in certain problematic areas,” Fiskeaux said.
The drainage work below the surface was completed over the summer. Crews are now working to lay brick pavers in areas where subsurface drainage work and new concrete support systems were installed.
Students should be prepared for work to continue through the fall semester. Fiskeaux explained the time-consuming nature of the project’s next phase. Laying the brick pavers requires precision to ensure the work is long-lasting.
The drainage improvements are projected to be completed in December.
