Date: 1/4/10
Contact: Kathy Beal
Illinois State University's Board of Trustees today approved additional funds to replace the University High School roof and upgrade Stroud Auditorium.
The Board authorized the $2.95 million project in July 2008, but the third phase of the project saw bid prices exceeding the authorized budget. The Board approved a $675,000 increase in the project, which will be covered by laboratory school reserves.
The project was divided into three phases to accommodate the school schedule. Stroud Auditorium has been out of service since last spring semester, but University High School needs to have access to the auditorium by the beginning of the 2011 spring semester. The third phase consists mainly of replacement and upgrade of mechanical air handling equipment, expansion of electrical services, upgrade of theatre lighting and controls, and installation of new seating.
The University has determined that the recent bids are valid for the scope of the work. The cost differences are attributed to adding a dedicated power generator for the auditorium and stage electrical and lighting; relocating two air handlers to the roof to mitigate sound and vibration; adding a third air handler to provide air movement during performances; unexpected high costs for acquisition of specialized theatrical equipment, lighting and electronic controls; adequate acoustical treatment material; and the amount of the premium by different prime contractors due to work high above the auditorium floor. The labor costs associated with the acquisition and installation of theatrical lighting and sound equipment also added to the increased price of the work.
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