UAlberta assesses Humanities building for space optimization

CBC reports that the University of Alberta is interested in removing its Humanities building from its inventory. The building is currently being assessed for “space optimization,” which could include leasing, temporarily closing, or demolishing it. “Our asset management strategy ensures changes on our campuses align with that core research, teaching and learning mission, while considering options for renewal, decommissioning, or removal of buildings,” said UAlberta spokesperson Michael Brown, who explained that the building’s removal would also remove operational costs and deferred maintenance. Professor Carolyn Sale expressed concern over the plans, as the building houses the English and Film Studies department as well as an Indigenous student space, student services, offices, and classrooms. “This will be a really negative impact for students to lose this kind of space,” said Sale. CBC Note: Archived stories may contain dead links or be missing source links.