This week we are sharing an interview that we conducted with Terrance “Buddy” Hale, Jr. from UNCG’s Facilities Design and Construction Department. Buddy is the project manager for the Jackson Library renovation.
What is your role in the Jackson Library renovation project?
Once the State approved funding for the project, I was assigned as UNCG’s Project Manager. As Project Manager, I basically shepherd the project through all the phases of the project, from the Design Phases through the Construction Phase. Due to the size and complexity of this project, Delana Reinard, Assistant Director of Facilities Design and Construction, was assigned as Co-Project Manager.
What excites you most about the renovation?
I just reached my 30th anniversary working in Facilities Design and Construction at UNCG. The projects that I have enjoyed the most have been the renovation projects. I find them to be the most challenging. During the Design Phase, I found the process of working with the Design Team and the Library Staff in developing a design that will transform an existing building into a building that will better serve the needs of UNCG to be very interesting and awarding.
What has been the most challenging part about the renovation?
During the Design Phase we worked with the Design Team, our Construction Manager, and the Library Staff to try to incorporate as many improvements to the building as possible that would result in 1) improvements to the programs that the Library offers, 2) replacing old building systems such as the HVAC System, and 3) bringing the building up to current Building Code. These improvements must always be balanced against the Project Budget, so there is the challenge of trying to make as many improvements as possible while staying with the budget.
What post-renovation features do you think students, faculty, and staff will benefit from the most?
The new building entrance on the West side of the Tower, the new entrance on the North side of the 1950’s Building, the Perch on the West side of the Tower, the 9th Floor Study Lounge, and the new windows on the West side of the Tower.
Is there anything else you want people to know about the renovation?
I would ask everyone for their patience during the long Construction Phase. To keep the Library open during Construction is difficult, but in the end I’m sure that everyone will be pleased with the end result.
