Middbrief: Handicap-accessible bathroom constructed in Sunderland

Construction at Sunderland Language Center to make the main entrance compliant with regulations in the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) was completed earlier this month. A handicap-accessible bathroom has also been built off the main lobby.

The construction began on Dec. 14, as soon as students left campus after exams. Staff affected by the renovations moved back into their offices this week.

According to Mark Gleason, a project manager with Facilities Services, the renovation was approved because the building is heavily used by students and the Middlebury community at large because of the 24-hour computer lab in Sunderland and the many programs held at Dana Auditorium.

Another, less visible aspect of the renovation is a plan to increase Sunderland’s energy efficiency by insulating portions of the roof. According to a building energy audit completed in 2008, the heating and cooling of college buildings currently accounts for approximately 80 percent of the carbon footprint, as stated in the 2008 Master Plan.

“The building was constructed in the 1960s without insulation, as was the practice at the time,” wrote Gleason in an e-mail. “With the project funds available, approximately one-half of the building roof was insulated.”

According to Furnishings and Communications Specialist Julie Hoyenski, there are no other major projects planned on campus. The residential carbon monoxide detector project that began last year is being continued, with Gifford and the Ross Complex next in line to receive the detectors. Students living in these dorms will be notified when the construction occurs.