University of Alabama auditorium to undergo $15 million renovation project

Oct 17, 2009

Foster Auditorium at the University Alabama is getting an addition. The new addition will look nearly identical to the original façade, as the project manager said that they are trying to mirror the architecture to make it look like it’s always been a part of the building. The $15 million expansion and renovation project has been approved by a committee of trustees. The auditorium will be home to the varsity volleyball and women’s basketball teams in the fall 2011 semester.

The auditorium has a history that involves more than just sports. Students used to register for classes in the auditorium. In 1963, the governor of Alabama stood at the door in symbolic opposition to block the admission of two black students, what would become known as the “Stand in the Schoolhouse Door.” It is the athletics department, however, that is paying for the renovations.

Along with the 8,500 square foot addition and the renovation of locker rooms, offices, mechanical systems and electrical systems, $387,000 went for the removal of asbestos from plaster and ceiling tiles. Remediation work was completed by Alabama Environmental of Cottondale.

For the full story, go to Tuscaloosa News.

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