Much of the plan's first phase, which is expected to take about four years and cost approximately $12 million, will involve expanding library space, remodeling classrooms, and relocating offices for greater efficiency. "Our David D. Palmer Memorial Library houses the world's largest collection of chiropractic publications and is a key contributor to health knowledge worldwide," said Virgil Strang, DC, Palmer's president. "Now we want to add to the inventory of personal and group study space, as well as computer facilities that will make it more comfortable and functional for students."
Other visible aspects of the phase one construction will include: extending the present Brady Street skywalk into a full skywalk system that will connect most campus buildings; transforming alley spaces into landscaped student courtyards; building new parking lots around campus; renovation of portions of West Hall; and the creation of a landscaped patio drop-off welcome area, tentatively named Palmer Plaza, which will replace a portion of an existing parking lot between Brady and Perry streets.
Dr. Strang said that the upgrading of facilities will accomplish several purposes, one of which is neighborhood beautification. "We have loyalty to this community because it has been good to us. One way to give back, besides just continuing our growing educational program here, is to add greenspaces and other beautification that will make our campus a more attractive community landmark."
No structural changes are planned for the former Masonic Temple in phase one of the plan, Dr. Strang said, although work will be done to upgrade heating, air conditioning, and building safety. Improving the building's systems "will allow us to use this majestic facility year-round for a variety of college and alumni events." Additional cosmetic work such as plaster repair and painting will also be done.
While Palmer College is determined to modernize its facilities and look toward the future, Dr. Strang also sees a benefit in reminding us of Palmer's past. "We plan to recapture some of the luster of years gone by," Strang says, in reference to the refurbishing of the college's amphitheater, which was originally a chapel. Dr. Strang also notes that recently discovered windows, Greek columns, and other architectural features that had been covered over will be restored, which "will add to the personality of Palmer College and remind future generations of chiropractic students of our rich legacy."
The later phases of the plan have yet to be finalized, depending on financing, construction progress, and future campus needs, but they are likely to include further West Hall renovations, reconfiguration of Palmer Auditorium, and landscaping and interior refurbishing of the former Masonic Temple.
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