By Dave Frank
Collegian Reporter

Kresge is coming down, finally.

The administration is moving forward with plans to construct two new buildings that will eventually replace Kresge.

They hope to begin construction, projected to last about 18 months, finishing by the 2004 to 2005 school year. Although, funding for both buildings must be met before any construction can begin.

Funding for one of the two proposed buildings has already been met with a $5.4 million-dollar gift.

The buildings, which will be located south of Central Hall and essentially flank both sides of the Civil War statue, will each be two stories, 21,000 square feet and have approximately 16 classrooms and 12 faculty offices. This will provide 5,000 square feet more than Kresge currently offers.

With external help from landscaper Steve Rosselet, the buildings will be designed in a similar classical style as that of Moss and Delp Halls.

Most important in the construction of the buildings, though, said Vice President of Administration, Richard Péwé, is the opinions of the faculty. They will be crucial in determining the ultimate number and size of offices, classrooms and seminar rooms.

“The impact of these buildings will make the campus look beautiful,” Péwé said.

However, he stressed that to truly make the campus more open and attractive, Kresge must be torn down.

The 28-year-old building is notorious not only for its poor heating and air-conditioning, but also as an eyesore that divides the campus.

The lower level of Kresge, however, will likely be left as a tunnel to connect Strosacker and the Mossey Library, Péwé said.

“This project is going to start making this place look like it should,” he said.