Students, faculty and staff returning to Ferris State University’s Big Rapids campus
will find smoother paths to travel and an improved appearance to the grounds, thanks
to the efforts of Physical Plant crews during the summer months.
Associate Vice President for Physical Plant Mike Hughes said paving work on Campus Drive and Stadium Drive is only part of the paving work that was taken up, during the season, when fewer vehicles are traveling on campus.
“Mark Eichenberg, the director of Physical Plant operations, was careful to schedule asphalt contractors so they did not impact orientation sessions on campus,” Hughes said. “A number of parking lots were paved, including Lot 38, which surrounds the Student Recreation Center; Lot 42, near the Hagerman Pharmacy Building; and those lots near the West Campus Apartments.”
Hughes said the grounds of the university were also a summertime focus for the Physical Plant staff.
“There has been a considerable emphasis on improving the look and quality of the turf, along with upgrades for general landscaping,” Hughes said. “That includes cutting dead trees throughout campus, and working on the condition of flower beds around the buildings.”
Hughes said the restoration of landscaping near the North Hall project is being done by contractors.
There were also renovation projects on campus during the summer, according to Hughes.
“A number of West Campus Apartments were given upgrades, along with improvements made
to a ‘clean room’ in the Hagerman Pharmacy Building,” Hughes said. “Contractors are
busy with the renovation and expansion of the Swan Annex, and pre-construction services
will get underway at Katke Golf Course, for the PGA Golf Management Learning Center,
and the Student Recreation Center.”
PHOTO CAPTION: Ferris State University's Big Rapids campus is being prepped for the
return of students. The majority of the students will begin arriving back on main
campus Friday, Aug. 25, the first major move-in day.