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Administration & Finance / News / News ReleaseFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Abel Valencia Remediation Work Paving Way for Student Center Satellite's ComebackHouston, Sept. 28, 2018 — Although the Student Center Satellite sustained significant damage from Hurricane Harvey, an ongoing remediation project being managed by UH Facilities/Construction Management will restore the popular campus gathering spot to its original pre-storm condition. The Satellite sustained significant damage from Harvey's constant rainfall. The intrusion of all the rain - resulting in approximately 3 inches of standing water - caused substantial damage to walls, carpet, furniture and millwork (woodwork) in the food court. The remediation has occurred in two phases. The first phase included the initial remediation of the water damage in September 2017, with the intent of getting the Satellite operational as soon as possible. This work included water extraction, remediation and build-back efforts. The water extraction and remediation effort involved drying out spaces and the removal of water-damaged walls and carpet to maintain the building's indoor air quality. The build-back included the replacement of Sheetrock and carpeting, painting of the interior offices, game room, student lounge and food court. This initial phase was completed in October 2017. After completion of the first phase, it was determined that all millwork needed to be replaced to ensure air quality, necessitating a second phase. This work includes the replacement of all millwork throughout the food court area, including Starbucks and Smoothie King. Millwork is specialized for each food vendor to meet their standard specifications. These repairs have been complicated due to additional residual water damage being discovered, extending the opening schedule. As of now, repairs and millwork replacement are slated to be completed this fall, with the Satellite reopening in January. Throughout both phases of this project, Facilities/Construction Management continues to take great care to fully restore the Student Center Satellite, making it once again a favorite place for students, faculty and staff to gather. For questions or more information about the Satellite remediation project, contact Facilities Communications at faccomm@central.uh.edu. About the University of HoustonThe University of Houston is a Carnegie-designated Tier One public research university recognized by The Princeton Review as one of the nation's best colleges for undergraduate education. UH serves the globally competitive Houston and Gulf Coast Region by providing world-class faculty, experiential learning and strategic industry partnerships. Located in the nation's fourth-largest city, UH serves more than 46,300 students in the most ethnically and culturally diverse region in the country. |
