South Campus's Goodyear Hall, which was often criticized for its dusty and dated appearance, underwent a series of remodeling projects this summer.
The estimated $11 million project began at the beginning of the summer, to meet the demands of returning students and incoming freshman for the upcoming school year.
Renovations for the South Campus residence hall included new windows, ceilings, interior and exterior painting, as well as more than 2,500 yards of new carpeting.
UB's residence hall rates for 2004-2005 included an increase of $25 to $43 per semester, dependant on room size. The increase is reflective of mandatory increases in New York State personnel and facilities costs, Krakowiak said.
Alyssa Nichols, a freshman undecided major, said she still remembers her first impression of Goodyear Hall prior to the renovations.
"Honestly, it felt as though I was walking in Penn Station," Nichols said. "The dim lighting in the hallways provided to be insufficient and garbage pilled up on the disposable bins for days."
With Goodyear's improved visage, Nichols said her attitude changed for the better.
"Goodyear definitely looks nicer and cleaner," she said with a smile on her face. "The lobby now has a more welcoming feel with its newly installed navy blue carpet and flooring."
Nichols added the recently installed lamp fixtures outlined the beige cinderblock halls, allowing student to feel more in tune with their surroundings.
"The warm beige paint lightens up the mood in the room and makes me feel more comfortable," Nichols said.
Natira Blue, student in the School of Management and resident assistant for the sixth floor of Clement Hall said she was also pleased with the progress of the renovations.
"Having lived in Goodyear last year as an RA I do applaud the many changes done to the hall, especially the lobby," said Blue. "It is much prettier."
Blue said she thinks Goodyear is rising in stature, but that more improvements can still be made.
"Although Goodyear is more aesthetically pleasing I do feel that it needs new furniture," Blue said.
According to Facilities Planning and Design news, University Facilities currently have 273 projects in the works at various planning, design, and construction sites of which, 148 are active renovation projects.
Joseph J. Krakowiak, director of university residence halls and apartments, said that UB continually assesses student satisfaction to ensure a positive living and learning environment that meets everyone's needs.
