The campus lagoon and surrounding grounds are getting a makeover.
Construction began last month and is the final phase of the Janice Hawkins Cultural Park.
A press release from Troy University explains why the restoration and landscaping project is necessary.
“Over the years, a large amount of silt has settled into the lagoon, reducing its depth, and negatively affecting clarity,” the release states. “The lagoon, the major source of water to irrigate the practice golf course, has been drained to dig out the silt, restoring the lagoon’s original depth.”
Additionally, there will be new walking trails, outside lighting, a watershed and an enhanced down-stream water flow system. The project has a budget of $4 million and is expected to be finished in the Spring of 2025.
“I did not ever expect to ever see this,” said First Lady Janice Hawkins.” I just felt like it was such a wonderful thing that I would hope for . . . and because of the absolute need for the water to be able to reach other areas of the university, they were able to speed it up.”
The lagoon space will be constructed in the same, unique style of the architects who first designed Troy University: The Olmsted Brothers, an architectural firm established in 1898 by brothers John Charles Olmsted and Frederick Law Olmsted Jr.
The area is often incorporated into classes, including biology and environmental sciences. Mrs. Hawkins said the renovations will make the space more accessible to research and learning opportunities.
Keely Johnson, a junior marine biology major from Chancellor, Alabama, said she is excited to see the future changes.
“Just driving past the lagoon or sitting in the gazebo, you could tell the lagoon wasn’t in the best of conditions,” Johnson said. “I think it’s incredibly important to renovate and maintain landmarks like these because it opens up so many avenues for the public to learn more about the natural life that’s all around them.”
While Mrs. Hawkins said she has less to do with the execution of this last beautification phase, she has always been dedicated to making the campus a beautiful and welcoming place.
“I feel so attached and so much pride to everything we do. It matters what kind of buildings we build,” Mrs. Hawkins said. “I'm just really proud, and people think this is a beautiful campus – and doesn't that make you feel good when you hear that?”
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