University Breaks Ground on Clock Tower

Contributing Writer

   Crews broke ground Tuesday, Feb. 10 in preparation for building the centerpiece of the university's centennial celebrations, the clock tower.

   Although no official groundbreaking has yet to take place, crews remain hard at work in the initial stages of construction. Crews are currently preparing the site which includes excavating wet earth and replacing it with dry fill to ensure a more stable environment for construction.

   Director of the Physical Plant Jim Hudgins said the construction firm of Davis Development has an estimated May 1 completion date for the project.

   Excavation encountered a minor hiccup Thursday when one of the machines damaged a previously unknown phone line, potentially disrupting service to the North side of the campus. However, phone crews responded quickly to fix the problem.

   Excavation also unearthed several large stones and clay pipes believed to be foundation piers and drainage systems for a long-gone structure.

   Events surrounding the clock tower are already being planned according to Director of Alumni Affairs, Carrie Ashcraft. Despite the projected May completion date an April 1 cake cutting ceremony is being planned to take place on the quad and the construction should be an interesting backdrop for the event Ashcraft said. Among other events of the day, the Office of Advancement plans to work with the United States Post Office to provide a special one-day-only centennial postage stamp for the event. The University invites all faculty, staff, students, alumni and members of the community to attend.

   For more information about the University of Arkansas at Monticello centennial clock tower, contact the Office of Advancement at (870) 460-1028

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