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[[underlined]] Other Major Construction Projects [[/underlined]]

[[underlined]] Renwick Exterior Repairs [[/underlined]]

On January 8, 1980, the Smithsonian presented to the Commission of Fine Arts its plans to replace the Renwick facade with precast concrete made to resemble the present stone.  The Commission later communicated that it prefers natural stone to precast concrete, but it will reserve final judgment pending an opportunity to examine samples which are now being produced.  This project, using precast concrete, is estimated to cost about $3.1 million as compared to an estimate of $5.5 million if European natural stone were selected.

[[underlined]] Natural History Building - North and South Entrance Modifications [[/underlined]]

A contract has been awarded in the amount of approximately $300,000 to provide improved access for the disabled and to increase emergency exit capability at the Natural History Building.  Pedestrian barricades have been erected and construction is underway.  Improvements will include ramps, curb cuts and automatic doors at the north entrance and the installation of additional doorways at the south entrance.  Construction is expected to be completed by late summer. 

[[underlined]] Mt. Hopkins Observatory [[/underlined]]

The new dormitory at the summit of Mt. Hopkins is now in use.  It is expected that a contract will be awarded (approximately $103,000) for the construction of a support building that will connect two existing telescope buildings and provide additional laboratory space for the proper storage, operation and movement of sensitive electro-optical equipment.