Grace Plaza, Putnam Way benefit from improvement project

A summer construction project along the section of Putnam Way surrounded by School of Engineering and Applied Sciences’ buildings will result in improved safety for members of the UB community, as well as enhanced landscaping in the area.

The project also will include the completion of Grace Plaza between Bonner and Bell halls.

“The vision of Grace Plaza reflects architecture and space, providing a living-learning environment that promotes reflection and opportunities to facilitate a meeting of the minds,” says Liesl Folks, dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

“Grace Plaza is designed to provide a visually stimulating environment that promotes cross-disciplinary discussion.”

As part of the construction, walkways running east to west on both sides of Putnam Way from Bonner to Bell halls will be closed.

“When completed, this project will slow vehicular traffic and make the pedestrian crossing along Putnam Way safer for members of the UB community,” says Bruce Buerger, manager of project support for University Facilities.

To maintain access along Putnam Way throughout the project, vehicles will be diverted onto the north sidewalk across from Bonner Hall through Aug. 15. Drivers are advised to avoid entering Putnam Way off of Hadley Road near the Mathematics Building to reduce traffic in the construction zone.

“Grace Plaza extension, between Bonner and Bell halls, is the final phase of the project,” Folks says. “It will utilize common design elements to create a cohesive space, as a unified garden, so people can really enjoy it as opposed to just passing through.”

Work began June 20 and is expected to bring limited disruption to campus vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The project, in alignment with the UB campus master plan, will continue until Aug. 26.

The project will not disrupt July Orientation programs for first-year students.