Two months of the semester have gone by and the staircase connecting the Marillac walkway to the lower level of the University has not been completed.

According to Ibi Yolas, the executive director of Design and Construction and Brij Anand, vice president of Facilities, the delay is because they are waiting for the cement to fully strengthen before completing the project.

The stairs were scheduled to open at the beginning of October.

“We are hopeful that they will be completed by Thanksgiving,” said Anand.

Once the cement has fully strengthened, they will begin to install the railings and granite on the staircase.

The granite will serve to beautify the project as well as create a rugged slip-proof surface. 

The old staircase will be turned into a green terrace by next spring. Plants and flowers will be placed in the space the old stairs occupied, according to the facilities department. 

The construction of the stairs and beautification of this area is all part of the plan to enhance the lower level of the university. According to facilities, the entire plan incorporates the D’Angelo Center as well as the lawn in that area.