Science Center Deconstruction, 2001
Former Scince Center during deconstruction
In April 2001, the College began to dismantle the old Science Center to prepare the building site for the construction of the new College Library. The first phase consisted of interior demolition: removal of all interior finishes, ductwork, wiring, non-load-bearing partitions, doors, windows, window frames, and stairs. Glass, wood, and metal from the building were carefully separated during this phase and taken away to be recycled at various regional recycling centers. Equipment from the Old Science Center that was no longer of use to the College was donated to area schools during the spring and summer of 1999.
The second phase of demolition was carried out between September and November 2001. Remote controlled demolition equipment dismantled the structure from top to bottom, and materials were shuttled to the ground floor via interior stairway and mechanical shafts. This method utilized the shell of the building to contain noise and dust. Water sprays were used to further control the amount of dust produced during demolition.
This structural concrete building was systematically deconstructed in a manner that enabled the College to recycle 98% of its materials. All concrete was crushed and stored on site for reuse as fill material for the excavation of the Science Center, for the houses that were relocated along Old Storrs Avenue, and for various other College projects.
Middlebury College was awarded a 2002 Vermont Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence and Pollution Prevention for its efforts in the deconstruction of this building.
Science Center deconstruction - Facts.
