Construction on several projects in the Marvin Center continued over winter break, despite ongoing permit delays. While parts of the projects continue to lag as GW awaits a permit to dig beneath ground level, workers began an expansion to the GW Bookstore and continued an expansion to Betts Theatre and renovations of the third-floor ballroom during break.

“They are proceeding with all that they can do without the permits,” said Mike Gargano, vice president for Student and Academic Support Services. “Students returning to campus will notice the inside ceiling torn up, and the construction by the bookstore. Everything is moving forward.”

The building’s 21st Street entrance is closed while workers build the “Great Hall.” Although access to the building will be limited during the construction, Gargano said student group activities will not be affected

“The only thing that will be changed in the Marvin Center, due to the construction, will be the availability of the facility for off-campus activities,” Gargano said. “We have decided to limit student organizations and the University from sponsoring outside events.”

Some classes scheduled to meet in the new School of Media and Public Affairs building at 21st and H streets were moved to the Marvin Center after workers failed to meet the Jan. 16 scheduled opening date. Although the Marvin Center staff did not plan to hosting classes in the building, Gargano said the rescheduled classes will not pose a problem.

“The classes will be limited to one room, and it shouldn’t be an
inconvenience for students,” he said.

Junior Josh Spellmann said that despite the inconvenience the wait would be worthwhile.

“I don’t like the construction but it is for the improvement of the campus,” he said.

Freshman Maria James agreed.

“People shouldn’t complain about the work going on here, because it is being done for them,” she said.