Editorial: Basic building repairs neglected in Administration

In his recent State of the University address, Fr. Stephen Sundborg, S.J., said that the university would be constructing a new classroom building in the near future, as well as renovating Bannan. The university aims to raise at least $100 million for these projects.

This money could be put to far better use. Bannan is in far better condition than several buildings on campus, such as the Administration building. Admin has genuine need for repair and its renovation should be a top priority for the university. While a renovation of Bannan certainly has merit, Admin's need is far greater and would be less costly. Admin bathrooms and classrooms often lack basic equipment, such as adequate ventilation, proper lighting and satisfactory heating.

Renovating these basic features of Admin is not a $100 million project. When compared to Sundborg's "science galaxy" or the new fitness center, these renovations would be relatively cheap.

The Administration building is one of the oldest and most recognizable buildings on campus and its austerity and grandeur should be maintained. The renovations proposed above would not alter the antiquity or aesthetics of the building, but would simply make it more comfortable.

The Spectator does not necessarily oppose the proposed projects, and in fact applauds the drive to strengthen our scientific research programs. However, his expansion should not come at the cost of ignoring basic and simple repairs of our existing buildings.