A $1million increase in Tufts' Arts and Sciences development budget over the past two years has led to a flurry of building and renovation projects. High on the University's list of priorities is a new psychology building, currently under construction behind Curtis Hall on Boston Ave.
The building will boast extensive research facilities, up-to-date labs, classrooms, seminar space, offices, and foster unity in the long-scattered department. Department Chair Robin Kanarek believes that the central location will benefit the psychology department - which is currently split between Bacon and Paige Halls - in the way that Dowling Hall helped bring together student services.
"It will be a chance to talk to each other more, both about research and teaching," she said. "It will give students a chance to know where the faculty are." The original research building, built in 1893, has undergone numerous renovations over the years.
Describing the facility as "abysmal," Kanarek complained of a lack of human research space, in addition to poor heating in classrooms, among the biggest problems plaguing the department's current location. While it already has ample space for animal research, the department needs more room for professors conducting human research.
Vice President of Operations John Roberto acknowledged Kanarek's complaints, and is optimistic that the new facility will meet a long-awaited need in the psychology department.
"We are replacing a facility that was totally inadequate," he said.
The foundation and masonry construction of the new facility is progressing on schedule, thanks to this fall's mild weather. Once the steel structure is erected in early December, workers will envelop the building in a plastic covering and work throughout the winter.
The building is scheduled to be completed by July 2001. The department should occupy the building shortly thereafter, for use during the following academic year.
"I think it's finally getting underway," Roberto said. "Everything's a little slow getting started but I'm very happy with the way things are getting done." The construction team is hoping for a mild winter to help maintain its progress.
The building is slated to cost between $6.5 and $7 million, and the University has created a full financial plan for its construction. Funding will be provided by the Arts and Sciences budget as well as by a grant from the National Institute of Health. There are not yet plans to name the building.
Construction Project Manager Paul Forgione said it is going to be a "beautiful building" with brick walls, a limestone base, and a copper roof. The building will contain a basement, three floors, and will be approximately 28,000 gross square feet.
Ondrus Associates designed the building, and Shawmut Construction is the contractor. "It will be a nice addition to the University," Forgione said.
The psychology faculty looks forward to occupying their new home. "Everyone in the department is thrilled. It's going to be wonderful." said Kanarek.
"It will bring all the faculty together with respect to research, and allow for increased interaction between department members and students," she said. "It is something we've been trying to do for a long time."
