Construction of the Auburn Memorial to begin April 25

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The Auburn University Garden of Memory will close April 25 and remain closed through the end of August for construction of the Auburn Memorial.

The Auburn Memorial initiative has been a top priority of leadership groups within the Student Government Association as a means of providing a space on campus where the Auburn Family could go for reflection, healing and privacy while remembering someone who passed away, according to SGA President Jesse Westerhouse.

"This project has been a focus of SGA executive leadership teams for more than eight years, but it really took off the last couple of years as a location was secured and former SGA President Walker Byrd worked tirelessly to secure funding," Westerhouse said. "After lots of conversations with the campus community, we are excited to see this project come to fruition, not only to serve students, but all of the Auburn Family."

Construction of the Memorial project will include installation of a walkway winding through the Garden from Samford Avenue to Mell Street, a memorial wall to include stanzas excerpted from the Auburn Creed, a seating area and a new plaza. In addition, the project will include construction of a new stairway entrance from Mell Street, pond and stream enhancements and development of a larger lawn space.

"The Garden of Memory is a unique location on campus with history dating back to the 1950s," said Ben Burmester, campus planner. "Under the leadership of the Garden Club of Alabama, the garden was originally established in honor of Alabama veterans. Given its history as a memorial location and the serene environment, the Garden is the ideal location for the Auburn Memorial."

During the construction period, parking along the Garden on Mell Street, and also pedestrian traffic surrounding the area, will be effected. For more information on the project and related closures, go to http://www.auburn.edu/administration/facilities/webapps/projects/profile.php?proj=14-336.
Click the Disruptions tab to view a construction closure map.

Questions about construction should be directed to Josh Conradson, construction manager, at conrajr@auburn.edu or Martha Koontz, communications, at martha.koontz@auburn.edu.

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