By Caitlin Gibbons

Bright signs now grace the exterior of the Student Success Building and offices will start moving March 19.

When the project started, the contractors anticipated handing over the building to the College in April, 2012. But construction is slightly ahead of schedule due to favorable weather. The project is also on budget, with material prices lower than what was anticipated in 2007, when planning began.

Carpet has been installed everywhere except on the fourth floor of the building, final coats of paint are being rolled onto the walls and furniture is being set up, says Sean Nesbitt, director of Facilities Planning and Space Management.

The general contractor, Saunders Construction, is working to complete punch lists with the architect, RNL, to make sure the building is up to their standards. The first floor list has been completed, and the second floor check is underway, Nesbitt says.

The $62 million building, 100 percent funded by student fees, is located on 8.5 acres between Seventh and Ninth streets, parallel to Auraria Parkway. It is the first building in the Metro State Neighborhood.

Backfill update

The process to renovate and move classrooms is halfway done, says Nesbitt.

Phase One of the project was completed in November. Phase Two, which will take approximately 14 to 15 months to complete, is starting.

Phase Two, aimed at the Central Classroom, West Classroom and the Technology building, is focused on getting people out of modular classrooms and offices, Nesbitt says. The modular buildings will not be removed immediately to maintain flexibility during the renovation, he says.

Athletic Fields

The design and construction of athletic fields slated for the area south of West Colfax Avenue and west of Rio Court is underway. Nesbitt says the tennis courts are to be completed in August.