News Summary
Ongoing construction projects in the University of Michigan’s Diag are complicating navigation for students and visitors. Major projects, including the replacement of brick pavers and infrastructure enhancements, have faced delays leading to significant challenges for daily movement across the campus. Revised completion dates stretch into the fall, highlighting the need for improved communication to manage the impact on student life and accessibility.
Construction in Ann Arbor’s University of Michigan Diag Challenges Student Navigation
Ann Arbor, MI — Ongoing construction projects in the University of Michigan’s Diag are creating notable challenges for students and campus visitors trying to navigate the area. Three major projects have been underway since May, aimed at repairing infrastructure damage and improving accessibility, but delays and disruptions have impacted daily movement across the central campus.
Details of the Construction Projects
The projects currently in progress include the replacement of old brick pavers and their concrete underlayment, enhancements to the drainage system for low-lying sidewalk areas, and the addition of an accessible ramp to the north entrance of the Hatcher Graduate Library. These initiatives were designed to address wear caused by frequent use and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles, which have taken a toll on the area over time.
Construction began in May, with original timelines set to complete the brick paver replacement by August 15, and the east accessible ramp by August 29. However, recent updates indicate these deadlines have been extended due to unforeseen issues encountered during work.
Extended Timelines and Reasons for Delays
Marina Roelofs, co-interim associate vice president for facilities and operations, has communicated revised completion dates, predicting the brick paver project will finish in September, while the Hatcher Ramp is now expected to be completed by October. The sidewalk drainage enhancements, including better water management and improved tree health measures, are also anticipated to be completed by October 17.
Delays have mainly been attributed to discovering more extensive damage to the concrete subbase underneath the brick pavers than initially anticipated. This has necessitated additional repair work, pushing back the schedule and prolonging the overall disruption in the area.
Objectives and Benefits of the Projects
The primary goals of these improvements are to restore damaged infrastructure, enhance water drainage, and promote the health of campus trees. The new drainage system is designed to prevent the puddling and water accumulation that previously caused hazards for pedestrians during rainy or snowy weather. Rainwater will now be efficiently directed into catch basins, improving safety and cleanliness.
Additional efforts include loosening soil around the Diag’s mature trees and adding compost to support root health. Earthworms will also be introduced as part of natural aeration methods to maintain healthy soil conditions. These environmental improvements aim to sustain the campus landscape and enhance the overall aesthetic and ecological quality of the area.
Impact on Students and Campus Life
The construction has significantly affected student movement across the Diag, particularly for those who rely on accessible routes. Students, such as LSA freshman Claire Cowing, have reported difficulties navigating the area amid ongoing work. The disruptions extend beyond the Diag, as construction on State Street also affects campus mobility.
State Street is completely closed between South University Avenue and East William Street until mid-November 2025 under a city-wide Watermain and Resurfacing Project, adding further challenges for students and faculty moving between buildings.
Responses and Future Considerations
Central Student Government President Eric Veal Jr. and other campus leaders have expressed concerns over how construction projects impact the student experience, emphasizing the need for clear communication about ongoing and future work. Maintaining transparency and providing updates remains a priority to minimize inconvenience and ensure students can adapt to campus changes.
As these projects progress toward completion, the university continues working to balance infrastructure upgrades with the need to keep the campus accessible and safe for all students and visitors.
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Additional Resources
- The Michigan Daily: Diag Construction
- Multi-Housing News: CRG Shapack Student Project
- YieldPro: Chapter Ann Arbor
- MLive: Move-in Closures and Roadwork
- Wikipedia: University of Michigan
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