Summer renovations at UH Hilo

A long-awaited renovation for Edith Kanakaʻole Hall at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo gets underway this summer.

"This much anticipated project has been in the works for a number of years," said Dr. Debra Fitzsimons, vice chancellor of administrative affairs. "We‘re happy to get the ball rolling."

The project includes replacing all existing air conditioning ducts, chilled water fan coil units, above-ground chilled water pipe insulation, light fixtures, and suspended ceilings. New chilled water fan coil units and motorized AC registers will be installed on the second floor. The goal is to provide better air quality and assist in mold and mildew control. The project will be done in four phases with an anticipated completion date of December 2010.

While work is ongoing, over 70 faculty and staff will be relocated to portable buildings. Faculty offices and classrooms will also be painted.

"Education will continue as usual and the ongoing renovation work will have a minimal impact on students," Fitzsimons said.

For more information, email Fitzsimons at debra.fitzsimons@hawaii.edu or Lo-Li Chih at ofpcc@hawaii.edu.