Floyd Science Building stood at the heart of campus for 55 years, but now the UNA community says goodbye.

Demolition of the center section of the building, including the restroom and elevator tower, began July 17. After contractors finish this area, they will begin demolition of the South-West wing.

Demolition is expected to last five weeks with an additional five weeks for debris cleanup. Contractors are expected to complete debris cleanup by Aug. 23, the first day of classes for the fall semester, said assistant vice president of Facilities Administration and Planning Michael Gautney in a campus-wide e-mail.

“During the demolition phase of the project, the area around Floyd Hall will be very congested with equipment and large trucks,” Gautney said. “Please be aware of your surroundings while walking around this area to insure that you are not entering an area under construction.”

To prepare for demolition of the South-West wing, contractors blocked a section of the walkway between Floyd and Powers Hall and the path from the Stone Lodge to Stevens, Gautney said.

The area from the Opler Clock in front of Floyd Hall to the Guillott University Center will remain open during the demolition of the South-West wing to provide a path around the construction area.

Contractors will add additional fencing and directional signs to guide pedestrians away from construction zones.

“Every effort is being made to insure that we maintain a safe campus environment and worksite,” Gautney said.

Throughout construction, contractors will block other areas of campus for safety concerns. Gautney said he anticipates the skywalk to the parking deck, the area between Floyd Hall and Stevens Hall and the path from Stevens Hall to the Stone Lodge will close during demolition of the North-East wing.

As contractors complete demolition of one area, paths will re-open for pedestrian use.

Demolition of the North-East wing will close Circular Road due to how close the street is to Floyd Hall. It will also block access to the first level of the parking deck, but vehicles can still exit at the ground level to Willingham Road.

The parking deck will be available for use during events such as Student Orientation and Registration and Student Move-In. Gautney said other than these events, he recommends for anyone visiting the main part of campus to avoid parking in the parking deck.

Although areas of the parking deck will close for construction, the third level entrance to the parking deck off Pine Street will remain open. This includes the area toward Flowers Hall and the Student Recreation Center.

After the demolition of Floyd Hall is complete, contractors are expected to begin building Laura M. Harrison Hall in its place.

Laura M. Harrison Hall will be the new home for the Anderson College of Nursing. It is expected to open fall 2018.

Stick with the Flor-Ala for details on blocked pathways during the construction of Laura M. Harrison Hall.