Summer update: Pile driving

There’s been a lot of change around our side of the campus since we broke ground on the expanded Wyckham House Student Centre in May. If you’ve been around our way at all recently you’re sure to notice the large crane that’s been set up. You’ve probably noticed the large excavation too. That’s the spot where the new wing of Wyckham House is going to go.

Everyone’s coffee was shaking like the puddles in Jurassic Park for a few days last month while the construction workers set the piles for the new building. Piles are long pillars that are driven down to the bedrock so that the foundation has something to set itself on—they’re kind of like legs that the building will stand on.

Now that the piles have been set, we’re getting ready to start pouring the concrete for the foundation. So far, we’re very pleased to report that the project is a little ahead of schedule.

We’ve heard some concerns lately from students who are worried that the construction will affect our ability to deliver our services or provide them with a place to eat or relax. The construction has been carefully planned to ensure that no disruption of any services will occur, including all our volunteer centres, the Liberty Lounge and food court. We will have to close during the spring and summer months of 2008 in order to join the new expansion with the existing building, but until then you can expect it will be business as usual around Wyckham House. (Photo courtesy of S. Foster, Mount Royal College)