Celebrations mark progression on campus

The dedication ceremonies of the Pedestrian Mall and the Hugh C. Bailey Science Center at Valdosta State University, April 10, 2006, mark the progression of over 30 renovation and construction improvements to the campus in the past year.

The dedication of the Pedestrian Mall celebrates the completion of construction that began in mid 2005. One of the intents was to improve pedestrian safety throughout the heart of the main campus by converting the existing Blazer Boulevard into a pedestrian walkway, allowing only emergency vehicular traffic. Students can now travel more quickly and safely to classes and in between buildings.

With colorful centennial banners swaying from the light posts, the Pedestrian Mall features inlaid brick, indigenous flora, fountains, and plenty of inviting seating areas and meets the strategic goal of enhancing the living learning environment of the main campus. The additional night-friendly lighting maintains security and the usability of after-hour facilities such as the astronomy observatory.

Although the Science Center is not a new facility to the campus, the naming dedication ceremony of the Hugh C. Bailey Science Center celebrates the life of the university's sixth president and the renovations and campus improvements that occurred during his tenure, 1978-2001, and that continue through the present.


Other improvements to the VSU campus recently have included:

- the expansion of the Admissions/Auxiliary parking lot and ornamental fence;
- the new Nevins parking lot;
the new Campus Recreation Softball Complex;
- the completion of the SPLOST-funded multi-use trail, which follows the one-mile creek branch through the campus for approximately of a mile;
- the installation of a state-of-the-art security camera system to enhance overall environmental and occupational safety;
- the major renovations of the north end of the University Center, to enhance usability of existing space and present a more professional and cohesive appearance; and
- the renovation of Lowndes Hall.

VSU construction and renovations will persist as the campus continues to grow to meet the needs of students in its 41-county region and beyond. Some of the major improvements expected to begin as early as this summer are the renovations of the university's Palms Dining Center, Sawyer Theatre, Career Services, and parts of Billy Grant Field, to name a few. These changes are in keeping with the University's Master Planning goals and will improve the usability of campus spaces, while enhancing the safety and living/learning environment for students, faculty, staff, during the celebration of VSU's Centennial years, 2006-2013.