Renovations of Towers North began at the end of the 2016 spring semester.

The $4 million renovation was necessary because the 20-year-old HVAC system in the building needed to be replaced. Finding parts due to the system being old became an ongoing expense.

The university searched to find an energy efficient replacement so the cost of the utilities will be more cost effective. The old system did not allow for individual room control. With the new system students will be able to electronically control their own thermostat.

“With the help of Siemens, a company that does a lot of the controls, they are the ones that make the thermostat and general contractors with Associated Sheet Metal of Jackson,” said Christopher Miller, the interim assistant director of facilities and operations for the Office of Residence Life. “They coordinated the effort with a bunch of different sub contractors and honestly did a great job in making sure it was done on time and making sure the units are functioning properly.”

This renovation also included the painting of walls and the removal of old carpet and placement of new carpet. At the end of the spring semester, Miller worked with student workers to have all the furniture removed and replaced to help the Facilities Management crew get the new carpet installed and walls painted. Miller had to organize the removal of all the desk, chairs, beds, mattresses and desks for the 132 rooms to be removed and put back.

There are 275 students and staff who live in Towers North. Miller oversaw all of the renovations of the entire residence hall, along with the construction of the new Greek Village.