Heavy rains during the summer delayed the construction of the new Physical Plant and engineering building on South Campus, but Associate Vice President for Facilities Jim Brummer said students should not experience much inconvenience as the semester begins.

The sidewalks on South Campus and the Grand Avenue extension, which were previously closed during construction, have been reopened in time for the start of classes.

Brummer said he doesn’t expect the construction to be disruptive for parking and driving in the area.

Senior Jenna Dockter said she had not noticed any inconveniences caused by the continued construction this fall.

“So far I think it’s been pretty easy to get to and from class,” Dockter said.

Junior Jordan Schmidt said he has found it easier to get around South Campus this semester compared to earlier in the construction process.

“Last semester when I went to McCarthy, I had to go around (the Service Center),” Schmidt said. “Now I don’t have to go around that part anymore.”

As classes started on Wednesday, construction crews were working on the exterior of the new building. Despite the noise and bustle outside, Dockter said her class on South Campus remained undisturbed.

“I couldn’t hear it at all,” Dockter said.

But Brummer said difficulties may arise for students later on in the month, as the sidewalks will be closed once more for a period of time in September while the construction crew lays down the final layer of asphalt. Physical Plant is working with Public Safety to figure out the best time to do this, he said.

“We’re trying to coordinate the time that would have the least amount of impact to our St. Thomas community,” Brummer said.

When construction started in March, it caused parking problems for some students. Now that the Grand Avenue extension and the Anderson Parking Facility have reopened, Brummer said parking issues should be resolved.

“I think what made parking difficult was probably just getting to some of the surface lots from Cretin Avenue because the parking ramp was only closed for a period of time during the summer,” Brummer said. “Parking should remain open and available for students.”

To manage the rain delays, Brummer said, the completion date has been pushed back and additional manpower has been provided for the site. The $6.5 million building, which was originally set to be completed in early September, is now expected to be finished in the coming weeks.

Rebecca Mariscal can be reached at mari2162@stthomas.edu.