NORMAL - Illinois State University is embarking on a period of widespread construction projects that will throw off the normal flow of campus life for a few years. | Dorms to live on through donation salvaged items

The razing of Dunn-Barton and Walker halls and the subsequent construction of the new $43.9 million Student Fitness and Kinesiology/Recreation Building take center stage this summer.

While that work is bound to disrupt central campus, other hot spots across ISU soon will see construction fencing going up. The work is expected to create a maze for pedestrians and drivers maneuvering through the campus area.

"In the past, we've had projects - but not all in the central paths of travel," said Dick Runner, ISU facilities planning director.

With major projects in central, east and south campus, most people on campus will encounter construction zones in some way, he said.

Following are some of the projects expected this summer:

- Expansion of the South University Street parking garage and demolition of the nearby tennis courts.

- First phase of the south campus air chiller installation, near Atkin-Colby halls.

- Resurfacing of the landmark pedestrian bridge that stretches across College Avenue. It will be closed June 1 through July 31.

- Closure of Manchester Hall for a complete renovation.

- Updating of the Watterson Towers Dining Complex.

- Renovation of Stevenson Hall.

Expected to be complete this summer are the Hewett Hall renovation, the southeast and northwest zone chiller plants, and the new alumni center at 1101 N. Main St.

Such an extensive hardhat zone led Runner and other facilities staff to get together with various campus groups as early as January to develop what he calls a "comprehensive communication effort."

In particular, Runner credits ISU media relations staff for creating an electronic newsletter to be sent to all ISU e-mail accounts. That means students, staff and faculty will receive documents outlining the projects.

Included in that will be a pedestrian route map for skirting south campus construction.

ISU also has added to its Internet home page, www.ilstu.edu, a graphic called "Construction Update."