Meredith College to proceed with new academic building construction

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The Meredith College Board of Trustees in Raleigh has reaffirmed the decision to begin construction on a new academic building to house two of the institution’s growing programs: communication and exercise and sports science. The new building project was paused in 2020 because of the pandemic, the Raleigh-based college says in March 29 statement.

Inland Construction, from Garner, has been selected as the general contractor for the project, following work by Raleigh-based Design Development Architects.

The new academic facility will be constructed near the Weatherspoon Gymnasium/Lowery Fitness Center, on the northwestern side of the college’s 225-acre campus. The approximately 13,000 sq. ft. building will include specialized spaces such as an agency-style classroom, a media studio, editing rooms, a human performance lab, an assessment lab, a conference room, and common areas.

Watch a virtual walk through of the planned building

Meredith president Jo Allen said the board’s approval and reaffirmation of a new academic structure is significant for two reasons.

“The board’s vote represents an endorsement in the strength of Meredith’s academic offerings,” she said. “Their approval also signifies confidence in our ability to continue growing and thriving as one of the country’s best women’s colleges.”

The new building will replace Weatherspoon Annex, providing new, cutting-edge instructional space for Meredith’s communication and exercise and sports science programs. Since 2011, enrollment in Meredith’s undergraduate communication and exercise and sports science programs has increased by 29% and 52% respectively.

The construction project will also free up space in Harris Building, allowing Meredith’s hospitality management program to be housed with the School of Business.

Construction is expected to be completed during the 2021-22 academic year, the college’s statement says.

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