From Glocker's renovations to the new basketball practice facility, UT students and staff have seen their share of construction.  

The longest-awaited piece of construction by many students and staff is the rebuild of Glocker Business Administration building. Having received funds from the state to rebuild, construction started in 2005 by tearing down all but the front of the building. The six-story building will include a glass ceiling and atrium, as well as being more handicap accessible than it was previously.

Glocker is expected to re-open its doors in fall 2008.

"The Glocker construction is a pain. It completely closes down one side of the road and part of the UC Plaza," said Elyse Maurer, a senior in theater.

The Glocker construction is a pain. It completely closes down one side of the road and part of the UC Plaza. Elyse Maurer, senior in theater

Another piece of reconstruction will soon be the music building. The School of Music currently has more students than was intended when the structure was built. Like Glocker, the music building received money from the state to fund the construction. However, donations are also being included in reconstruction costs. 

The Pratt Pavillion is also a new addition. Located next to Thompson-Boling Arena, it is a practice facility for the basketball players. Of all of the larger constructions sites on campus, the pavillion's construction has moved at a much faster pace.

Some of the small pieces of construction include bricklaying in Circle Park. Construction workers are laying brick along walkway that connects the Communications building to Andy Holt Tower. No confirmation on when the walkway will be complete.

One part of the campus construction has been well-received by many students from every major. The Commons North and South have become a meeting ground for group study, tutoring and any other various class assignments. Travis Lee, a senior in French, is a frequent visitor to the Commons and can find only one downside to the facility.

"It's now the only option for students needing a place that is 24-hours. I don't like that they closed the bottom floor lab of the library. The Commons is now the only place I have to go when I have a late night of studying," Lee said.

Construction is an eye-sore and hassle to deal with while it's taking place, but it's also a sign of progress on our campus.  Aaron Glover, junior in statistics

Besides learning facilities, new places to eat have also been constructed. Einstein Bros. Bagels opened up recently in the Art & Architecture Building, and McAllister's Deli was added into the Thompson-Boling Arena cafeteria.

With how much construction is taking place around campus, it can be overwhelming and hard to avoid.

"Construction is an eyesore and hassle to deal with while it's taking place, but it's also a sign of progress on our campus. These revolutionary projects are a symbol of the investment the alumni and state representatives are putting into the University of Tennessee. Right now, more than ever, is a great time to be a volunteer," said Aaron Glover, junior in statistics.