The Arkansas Tech University Office of Facilities Management reports that sod installation on the Hindsman Tower lawn and adjacent areas began on Thursday, July 9.
The campus beautification green space project is made possible through the philanthropy of Arkansas Tech alumnus and benefactor Robert Norman.
“Over a span of multiple decades, Mr. Norman and his family have made a series of gifts that have played an integral role in providing Arkansas Tech with one of the most beautiful campuses in this region of the United States,” said Dr. Russell Jones, ATU president. “We are grateful for his continued commitment to providing our students, faculty and staff with such an appealing place to learn, live, teach and work.”
In addition to the sod, the scope of the project includes enhanced irrigation and mulch beds surrounded by cut stone edging. The mulch beds are designed to help support the health of the trees that surround the Hindsman Tower lawn.
In response to this campus improvement, ATU students, faculty, staff and guests are asked to remain off the new sod as it becomes acclimated to its new surroundings.
“We intentionally selected a sod variety that is designed to withstand foot and small vehicle traffic over the long term,” said Drew Dickey, ATU director of facilities management. “However, during the next eight weeks, it is especially vulnerable as it establishes its root system. To give it the best chance for long-term success, we are asking the university community to remain off these newly sodded areas. This is especially important through the end of August while the sod becomes established.”
