EAC Photo: A multimillion-dollar renovation project to the Gherald L. Hoopes Activities Center and Mark Allen Hall is scheduled to begin this week.
Campus improvement project to upgrade facilities and create student-centered space
By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College is slated to begin a multimillion-dollar renovation project this week on its Gherald L. Hoopes Jr. Activities Center and Mark Allen Hall that will upgrade facilities and create spaces where students gather, access services, and connect with one another. The project is scheduled to be completed in Spring 2024. Though hours and locations may vary, Gila Hank’s Café, the Campus Store, the EAC Foundation, Lee Little Theater, and Mark Allen Hall’s recently renovated living spaces will remain open throughout construction.
“This renovation project will deliver meaningful results with significant efficiencies in cost and scheduling,” said Todd Haynie, EAC president. “Both buildings have become functionally obsolete and expensive to operate. New interior finishes, an emphasis on energy-saving strategies, and creating shared spaces will serve future generations and keep EAC at the forefront of higher education for years to come.”
Renovation of the Activities Center will encompass 15,250 square feet and create a vibrant hub that offers usable, up-to-date spaces for students and the community. Improvements include:
· an expanded Gila Hank’s Café that offers a food-court-like experience with more concept food offerings;
· designated space for EAC’s NJCAA eSports team that includes PC and console games;
· usable outside access into the EAC Monster Pit from the south side of the building. The EAC Monster Pit will also include highly functional offices for the Associated Students of Eastern Arizona College;
· a new eastside location for The Campus Store with expanded space and storefront offerings;
The Activities Center’s Main Dining Hall, Lee Little Theater, and the EAC Foundation offices will remain in their current locations during construction and after the renovation is completed.
Mark Allen Hall was EAC’s main student union when it opened in 1964 and renovations will bring back the building’s shared spaces to improve student learning and living. The renovated area encompasses 10,030 square feet and will include:
· a student kitchen and consolidated laundry area in the building’s old dining hall, which was closed in 1993 when food services moved to the Activities Center;
· quiet spaces and a designated study room added upstairs in the old laundry facility locations;
· a completely redesigned commons area with new amenities;
· a newly designed main entrance on the east side of Mark Allen Hall, complete with landscaping that directs students into the building;
· improved access and an outdoor plaza for students to gather on the west side of the building;
· energy efficient windows, doors, and lighting throughout the project.
This project also includes several thousand square feet of renovations to the grounds surrounding both buildings, including infrastructure upgrades, two ramadas, outdoor furniture, lighting, and landscaping.
“This renovation project is the result of feasibility studies that helped us determine the best course of action for our campus community,” said Haynie. “It will allow us to offer student housing, dining, and shared spaces that align with contemporary student expectations with a 70% cost savings over using new construction.”
Significant funding was a result of appropriations secured by District 19 legislators, including Senator David Gowan, Representative Gail Griffin, and Representative Lupe Diaz. The remaining costs were paid from reserve funds that have been set aside by the EAC Governing Board.
CORE Construction has been chosen as the contractor for this renovation project. CORE has offices across the country and provides exceptional building services in 13 markets. CORE was the general contractor for Arizona State University’s Lantana Hall, the Sun Devil Stadium Southeast Plaza Renovation, and the University of Arizona Hillenbrand Aquatic Center Improvements. In 2023, CORE Construction was ranked as the number one general contractor in Arizona by AZBIGMEDIA.
About Eastern Arizona College
Eastern Arizona College – the first community college in Arizona – has helped students claim their dreams since 1888. EAC’s qualified and caring instructors prepare students for the most in-demand careers and advanced study at universities. EAC offers more than 90 certificates and degrees, including the #1 nursing school in Arizona, a fine arts program featuring the only marching band in Arizona, and an engineering program that brings students up to speed for success at universities and top-tiered firms. Students thrive at EAC, making friendships that last a lifetime. EAC’s vibrant student experience includes on-campus housing, more than 30 clubs and organizations, active intramurals, and nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams. At EAC, most students leave with $0 debt. Let EAC provide an affordable way for you to claim your dreams. Contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272 today.
