The interior of Auburn s famous red-brick landmark building with the clock tower has several safety, health, accessibility and historical preservation problems that need to be addressed, says President William V. Muse. Major problems identified by University Architect Greg Parsons include highly combustible and termite-infested wood, deteriorating brick masonry and lack of access for people with disabilities. Samford last underwent a major interior renovation in 1970-71, when many historic features were destroyed and air conditioning was installed.
Parsons says some of the building s current problems date from that time.
Other problems, such as highly combustible wood in parts of the building, date from the origin of the 1888 building. Parsons identified the major safety problem as the fire danger, compounded by improper fire exits and lack of fire sprinklers. He also cited the health problem of poor indoor air quality. In addition to noting the termite damage and deteriorating bricks, Parsons cited moisture entry at the foundation and inefficient heating and air conditioning systems, which add to the deterioration. Although the building might qualify on historical grounds for exemption from federal laws on access for the disabled, Parsons noted that previous changes in the interior have weakened that argument.