The separation of the University of Memphis campus and one of its largest parking lots by the railroad tracks has caused students many problems throughout the years.
The plan to build a bridge that connects Southern and Walker Avenue, was first introduced in 2017. Construction is planned to continue through May 2019, but the parking, amphitheater and recreational center improvements may be worth the wait.
“The garage is expected to be finished in late May, and we should start on the new student wellness center in June,†UofM president M. David Rudd said. “I’d like to remind people that it’s not just a bridge and a garage. The bridge will actually create an amphitheater, so that’s an opportunity for gatherings and events.â€
The university will also have a plaza area, which will be located from the current recreational center to the new one and will serve as a place for students to socialize, Rudd said.
In addition to the other building improvements, a lesser-known renovation is coming to the UofM. Students can expect to see the Mike Rose Natatorium, a swimming facility, soon. Rudd said fundraising for the center is almost completed.
Tony Poteet, the assistant vice president of campus planning and design, said construction is moving along as anticipated, if not faster. Government clearance and communication with Norfolk Southern, the railroad company, served as factors that made the project possible.
“It’s a positive movement as we build,†Poteet said. “It brings in 250 additional parking spots, safety at crossings and on the railroad and more space.â€
Poteet said communication and cohesiveness have also been major components. The concrete is delivered from Atlanta, while Flinko, the university’s contractor, the railroad company and the UofM remain in consistent contact to provide the fastest way of revamping.
Poteet said he is unsure when the bridge is set to be completed, but said he will notify everyone when he finds out.
“The master plan is restoration,†Poteet said. “The railroad track has been in the plan for many years. When we find out an exact time for completion of the bridge and other amenities we will let the public know.â€
Although the university is expecting new additions, the construction has created issues for some students.
“I’m really glad I left an hour early today,†said Michelle Castorena, a sophomore psychology major. “I parked in the Southern lot and had to wait with everyone else while the construction man was on that thing.â€
Castorena said she is uncertain whether the land bridge and parking garage will be worth the current traffic issues, but she said she was unaware of the other improvements that are soon to come to campus, such as the recreational center.
