Representatives from the Massachusetts Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) and Miller Dyer Spears (MDS) architects shared an update about the Parenzo Hall renovation project at an open meeting Feb. 14.
The representatives outlined the project’s goals and shared information about the current plans for space assignments of various programs and departments, both during and following the renovations. Decisions have been made in collaboration with four working groups representative of various faculty, staff, and administrators.
The University looks forward to the efficiencies and partnerships to be realized with the establishment of the Center for Student Success and Engagement, as well as the Collaboration Lab (CoLab) through the renovation. A reconfigured, fully accessible, and air-conditioned Dever Stage is also among the project’s highlights.
Due to the project’s budget parameters, both the basement of Parenzo Hall and the Banacos Academic Center will be refreshed, rather than renovated. And the Departments of Ethnic and Gender Studies, Language and Culture Studies, Sociology, and Social Work will remain in Mod Hall.
Those planning the project are still working to reduce the overall cost, currently estimated at $41.7 million, $1.7 million over the $40 million budget.
For those in the campus community unable to attend the Feb. 14 event, visit the project’s web page www.westfield.edu/parenzorenovation and reference the Feb. 14 presentation listed under “Resources” on the bottom of the page.
Projections call for Parenzo occupants to relocate to temporary space during the winter semester break in early 2021. Project completion is anticipated at the conclusion of the 2022-23 academic year, enabling a summer 2023 move into the renovated Parenzo Hall.