That's one more lab Clegg wants to use for an experimental-physics faculty member, or maybe a classroom. Faculty in the Chemistry department face a similar problem. Recently the department decided against hiring two new faculty members because there's no room. To hire a synthetic organic chemist would mean finding lab space for 25 to 30 assistants to synthesize new molecules. Tom Meyer, professor of chemistry and vice provost for graduate studies and research, says the space deficit inhibits the university's ability to recruit faculty, attract graduate students and funding.
Renovation is one answer to the space shortage.
Gordon Rutherford, director of facilities planning, says the university continues to get more money from the General Assembly for renovations. Rutherford has directed new and old building maintenance for 28 years at Carolina. For instance, a recirculating air system was installed in Kenan Laboratories, built in the late 1960s. Meanwhile, the amount of space considered unfit for library, office, or lab work grows. Hill Hall's basement, currently occupied by the Music Library, will be condemned once the library moves out.