Renovations to Cullen Auditorium have continued into the spring semester as workers have begun installing a new roof on the building. The new roof should prohibit water flow and protect the overall wellbeing of the auditorium. Cullen experienced two floods last semester that caused severe damage to the 40 year-old building.

“Construction workers are currently putting on a new roof on Cullen Auditorium and making some improvements to the roof’s structure,” sad Tom Craig, director of student activities and productions. “The improvements include new downspouts to take rainwater further away from the building.”

Cullen suffered through two rainstorms last semester that flooded the auditorium and caused severe damage. Many hours have gone into the reconstruction and prevention of future floods to the valuable structure.

“The redirecting of rainwater away from the building will help minimize the possibility of water accumulation and flooding, which is always a good thing,” said Craig. “The new roof will extend the life of the building, continuing to keep us ‘in the dry’.”

Corey Ruff, executive director of facilities and campus management, referred questions about the construction to Scot Colley, executive director of construction and risk management. Colley could not be reached for further information about the renovations.

Even with the environmental damage, the roof of Cullen was scheduled to be repaired sooner rather than later.

“The university has a perpetual building improvement plan to keep all of our buildings in good physical shape,” said Craig.

The construction has not prohibited the use of Cullen by ACU. Classes were not offered for the spring semester that would have been located in Cullen, but the auditorium is still open to be used by students and teachers.

“There are no classes in Cullen this semester, but our reservations include student activities, Chapel gatherings, Music Department events and other special events,” said Craig. “The university schedules projects like this during times that offer the least disruption possible for class schedules.”

Cornerstone was the only class offered to students last semester that took place in Cullen Auditorium. Even with the construction, classes were allowed to proceed.

It is unknown when the construction will be complete.