News Archives: Anderson Hall Demolition Underway
Tuesday, November 1st, 2011
The safety fencing is being installed, the usable windows, appliances and furnishings have found new homes, and the bulldozer is waiting patiently nearby to begin demolition of Anderson Hall, the 28-year-old student residence at GPRC. The removal process will begin this week, and will be completed by the end of the year. Since the decision to close Anderson Hall was made in June of this year, crews have been busy finding new homes for any usable furnishings or appliances, windows and doors. Truckload after truckload has been hauled away to be donated, sold, or repurposed. Many items were donated to the City of Grande Prairie housing program, and the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre. Furnishings and kitchen items were donated to students in off-campus housing. “We have been able to help many people through our preparations for this demolition,” says Kim Richardson, housing manager, who has been in charge of the distribution of salvageable items. While Anderson Hall was being prepared for demolition, the units provided excellent training locations for Firefighting and RCMP training exercises which are possible only in vacant buildings. The demolition decision was made by the GPRC Board of Governors at their meeting of June 15, prompted by the high maintenance costs of the old structure, and the need for numerous and costly renovations if the building were to continue as a residence. Anderson Hall, which opened in 1984, was named in honour of Dr. Henry Anderson, the first President of GPRC. The College will be revealing a new and enduring recognition of Dr. Henry Anderson at an upcoming special event. “This is an old building, and would require a very significant investment in the near future,” explains Laurie Sutherland, Vice-President Administration. “The best business decision for the College is to take this step now. The removal of Anderson Hall is another step toward the realization of GPRC’s Master Plan for campus renewal and expansion.” Once the demolition is complete, the area, which is adjacent to the urban trail system, will be renewed as green space for the enjoyment of students and community.