The Umbeck Science-Mathematics Center (SMC) will be getting an upgrade: specifically, the C-Wing, which contains chemistry classrooms and labs, offices, bathrooms, and common areas.
Knox was awarded a $10 million grant from the State of Illinois’ Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to fund the SMC renovation. According to Vice President for Administration and General Counsel Brad Nolden, a group of stakeholders selected the C-Wing to prioritize for remodeling.
“It is anticipated that the grant funds will be the sole source of funding, but further evaluation will be needed once additional pricing exercises are completed,” Nolden said in a written statement.
The project is currently in the design development phase, now that the initial schematic design is completed.
“This stage helps to refine plans and produce the preliminary set of construction documents,” Nolden said.
According to a press release, the two companies working on the renovations are RATIO Design and Russell, a construction company.
The SMC Renovation Steering Committee, composed of Knox faculty and staff, has been meeting to develop the plans and criteria for the design. The committee sent a survey to students seeking input as the design phase continues. The survey closed Jan. 23, and Vice President for Communications Megan Scott said a summary of the survey results will be posted as an update on the SMC renovations page.
According to Nolden, construction is expected to start this summer and will end in 2027, with the construction likely occurring in phases so that the space can continue to be used.
