Julian Reyes
The Pierce College Council discussed a report on the performing arts building on Wednesday, which is scheduled for structural and electronic renovations on March 2011.
The agenda report included a presentation from Joseph W. Sion a senior associate of Steinberg Architects, who are in charge of the renovations.
The proposal would provide a new face to the building. Renovations include new seating, an expansion of the interior, and lobby. Also planned are new railings, carpet, and wall treatment but the existing ceiling would remain. The restrooms would be updated and a new wheelchair lift would be provided. The upper level would have new elevator access and theatrical improvements would include a new audiovisual system. The multimedia capabilities would also be used for high tech type meetings and related events.
New Pierce College President Dr. Kathleen Burke-Kelly had a positive reaction towards the improvements. “It updates the facility, it looks like it was opened up in the 70’s… it will have a better use of the balcony which has a great view of the valley.” Said Burke-Kelly, “I would like to see their plans for the woman’s restroom because the longs were long”
Professor of Computer Applications & Office Technologies, Joseph Perret also had a good reaction to the building. “It’s going to be a beautiful building, it is quite an asset to have, if you sit around the balcony during intermission you have the best view of the valley… it is just gorgeous. ” But he did have some concern, saying, “I would like to continue with this Mediterranean Spanish style because it doesn’t fit.”
Academic Senate President Tom Rusdahl shared a similar opinion, “It’s really one of the only places in campus where you can get a large group together and have a nice meeting.” Said Rusdahl, “There are various parts of the college that were built in different times and in some cases they were built at times that were the architecture of the day. Financially you can’t make them look the same.”
Other reports included the budget and technology committee, and new business in the policies of faculty mailbox usage and purchase or lease of copy equipment for copy tech. This meeting also marked the final appearance of former Vice-President of Academic Affairs, Nabil Abu-Ghazaleh who reported on the priorities of the grant applications.
For more information: http://www.piercecollege.edu/build/