Kelly Mcclurg Hoar Construction LLC was the lowest bidder on the expansion of Volker Hall, the teaching hub for the University of Alabama at Birmingham's School of Medicine. Hoar the contract is expected soon. Although Slaughter says he does not anticipate a problem, the final decision rests with UAB's board of directors, which will meet June 22. The second and sixth floors will remain empty while school officials decide how to fill the space and secure extra funds.
Uses usually spring up either during or after construction.
A clinical skills training center will occupy the third floor. Dr. Dennis Boulware says the center will be equipped with cameras and recording devices and will serve as a mock clinic for students. Clay Birchfield says Volker Hall was built with this addition in mind. While construction will temporarily disrupt student life, Boulware says the end result will be worth it. Students will still have areas for quiet study, and parking will not be affected.