Current Projects

What is the steam pipeline project?

• Like many other higher education campuses in the U.S., our campus is heated with steam, produced by three boilers located in the physical plant. Unlike most campuses, Western does not have an underground tunnel system that connects to every building, which is vital to the maintenance and stability of the pipes that provide heat to the campus.         

Why is this project happening?

• Currently, Western lacks a tunnel system, prompting us to bury our steam pipes directly underground. Initially, the steam system relied on basic cast iron pipes that suffered rapid corrosion due to our acidic soil. Subsequently, an improved iteration emerged—a jacketed cast iron system—that proved effective unless the protective jacket developed leaks. Unfortunately, over time, these jackets failed, leading to subsequent failures in the cast iron pipes. Presently, our existing jacket system is exhibiting indications of compromised integrity.

Why is it necessary?

• Each pinhole in the pipe results in a gradual loss of both steam and water within the system. As these holes accumulate, the pressure and water loss increase, leading to an inadequate supply of steam in the steam line. With the current age of the steampipes and their level of deterioration, Western is losing 1,000 gallons of water on average per week, compared with a new system which sees a typical loss of 20 to 80 gallons per week. In addition to this loss, an additive is required in the water at $1,800 per 500 gallons of water (per week). By upgrading the current steam line to a stainless-steel system, we effectively prolong the lifespan of the system, ensuring a more reliable and sustained supply of steam.

Is there going to be additional parking provided for students?

• None of the WOU parking lots are closed, so students with parking permits can park as usual. The only street parking that is closed is along Church Street.

What about disabled veterans accessing the Veterans Resource Center in the Werner University Center?

• There are 4 Veterans designated parking spots in Lot H right next to the Werner University Center. Pedestrian traffic to the WUC from Lot H is unaffected by the construction. Street parking along Church Street is closed, including the short-term parking spaces outside the Werner University Center near the southwest entrance. 

How does this affect commencement?

• Commencement will be unaffected. Commencement parking signage will be posted around campus closer to the event.

Will the sidewalks be open?

• Sidewalks will be open during the spring term, however, there will be some sidewalk closures this summer, which will be announced soon. The crosswalks across Monmouth Ave from Church Street to Jackson Street will be closed for the duration of the project. The campus and community will receive a two-week notice of additional closures.

Where will the bus stops on Monmouth Ave outside of the Werner University Center and the Library be relocated to?

• The bus stops in front of the Werner University Center and Library are relocated to the corner of Stadium Drive and Church Street.

Where will the Trolley stop on Jackson Street be relocated to?

• The Trolley on Jackson Street will be relocated to 50 feet west on Jackson Street.