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Campus construction update

Thursday, February 19, 2026
by Tyler Wheat

Current Projects

GS# 104-215 Jones Hall Interior/Exterior Renovations: This is a Bureau of Building project. Planning and construction through Warranty Phase of renovations is planned for Jones Hall. This 47,000 square foot facility, first constructed in 1964 has only received minor improvements over the course of its life. Scope will include asbestos abatement, restoration of interior and exterior elements, interior reconfiguration, ADA improvements and major renovations of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing and life safety systems. Due to the building’s Mississippi Landmark status, coordination with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History will be required. The project professional is Schafer Zahner and Zahner. This project has been re-bid and was awarded to Ethos Construction. The Notice to Proceed was issued on 02/09/2026. The project is scheduled for 365 days.

GS# 104-214 South Campus Mechanical Plant Improvements: This is a Bureau of Building project. A new chiller plant is planned for construction to provide cooling for Jones, Kincannon, Goen and Frazer. This new plant will provide chilled water delivery with improved efficiencies and redundant backup cooling. The project professional is Dewberry Engineering. This project has been awarded to Brislin, Inc. Substantial completion is expected by November 2026. This project is approximately 10% complete.

GS# 104-221 McDevitt Emergency Power Upgrade: This is a Bureau of Building project. McDevitt will have two new emergency generators installed to replace the existing one. This has been changed from a JOC project to a sealed bid. The professional will be Dewberry Engineering, and the general contractor is to be determined. The bid opening for this project is scheduled for 03/04/2026 at 2:00 pm.

GS# 104-222 Stark Recreation & Pohl Gym Reroof: This is a Bureau of Building JOC project. This project includes replacing the flat roof sections on Stark Recreation building, Pohl Gymnasium and the connecting crosswalk over 11th street. The project professional is JBHM Architects and the general contractor is Alliant Construction. Work began 09/29/2025 and is scheduled to be completed on 03/13/2026. This project is 95% complete

About The W

Located in historic Columbus, Mississippi, The W was founded in 1884 as the first state-supported college for women in the United States. Today, the university is home to 2,371 students in more than 70 majors and concentrations and has educated men for 40 years. The university is nationally recognized for low student debt, community and social mobility which empowers students to BE BOLD.

Be Bold.