Miller gets a twin, Powell, a facelift

Two of AU's most prominent buildings have received attention since the end of the academic year. Miller Performing Arts Center is still in the process of adding a second building, currently called "Phase II," while the front of Powell Campus Center has also undergone some changes.

Over the summer, Powell's entrance onto Academic Alley was upgraded and the walkways were furnished with more plants. This has enhanced the building's appearance and, by decreasing the sharp incline downward, has made Powell safer to exit during winter.

While generally aware of Miller Phase II's intended use, not everyone on campus is familiar with any other details. The Fiat asked Mike Neiderbach, Director of Building and Groundskeeping here at AU, a few questions about the building project.

The Phase II add-on will not replace the existing performing arts building that was completed in 1995, Neiderbach said. Instead, the new building will be a supplement to Phase I, the older structure. What does that mean? Basically, Phase I exists as a location for offices, rehearsal and work space for the performing arts department, while Phase II will be a theatre for the final performing arts shows.

What can everyone expect from the new Miller building? Phase II will be 30,000 square feet and seat 475 people. As for the projected completion date, most of the exterior will be done this fall. The interior stage and seats will be complete around the spring of 2010. Neiderbach said that the whole building will be completely finished in August of 2010.