For the first time in 30 years, a large scale implosion will take place in Lincoln on Friday morning.
Two University of Nebraska-Lincoln residence halls will come tumbling down during a 9:00 AM implosion. University heads and the Board of Regents agreed in 2010 that Cather and Pound halls were not worth the investment to update them for modern students.
Director of University Housing Sue Gildersleeve says it was a tough decision to tear down the 55 year old halls, but one that was necessary. "Unfortunately the cost to do so just significantly outweighed the benefits and what we could provide in amenities and the kinds of things students today want."
Gildersleeve says the demolition has shut down a few streets on campus in order to safely bring the structures down. "Obviously campus is very tight. It takes a great care and preparation to do this in a safe way that brings these structures down without risk of damage to nearby buildings."
The December 22nd date was chosen as to disrupt as little activity on campus as possible. Most students are home for winter break and there are no classes going on during this time, which makes it perfect for the demolition.
Since it isn't every day two thirteen-story buildings come down, Gildersleeve says there has been a lot of interest in seeing the demolition in person. She says there will be a viewing area for those who want to watch at a safe distance. "This is once in a lifetime situation for so many of us, and we understand people want to watch. So, we've designated the top floor of the Abel parking garage at 19th and Vine as a great place to watch." Spectators should enter the garage from the north side, off of Antelope Valley Parkway.
Demolition cleanup is slated to take place until next summer, and once completed the area will be turned into green space. At this point, the university does not have any plans to build another structure on that spot.
If you can't make it to Lincoln to watch the demolition in person, you can view a live stream here.