Mississippi State University’s new classroom-garage construction project is now underway and proceeds with the partial blockade of Barr Avenue and George Perry Street.
Initiated in late December, the closure on Barr Avenue extends from the intersection with George Perry Street and continues to the entrance of the Critz Hall parking lot. George Perry Street’s closure extends from the intersection with Barr Avenue and continues to the entrance of the YMCA-Post Office building. 
There are currently no other roads closing.
Tim Muzzi, associate director of facilities management, said the classroom-parking garage construction project will take about 20 months to complete and is modeled after MSU’s former residence hall, Old Main.
“The classroom garage will feature about 145 parking spaces for the first two levels, approximating about 60,000 square feet of space,” Muzzi said. “The top three floors will feature classrooms, which will come to around 90,000 square feet of space.”
Muzzi said there will be two entrances for the new classroom garage, one off of Barr Avenue and the other off of George Perry Street.
“Upon the completion of this project, Barr and George Perry will serve as the entrances into the new building. The parking garage will also be source for another transit stop on campus,” Muzzi said.
Muzzi said the parking spaces now prohibited due to the closure of Barr Avenue and George Perry Street will re-open upon completion of the project in fall 2015.
“The parking spaces that will be gained from this project will service students, employees and visitors to have easier access to the union, cafeteria and other public places on campus,” Muzzi said.
J.D. Hardy, associate director of utilities for MSU’s campus services organization, said the classroom-garage project, stadium construction and the renovation of Lee Hall are the major projects taking place currently, and they are essential in meeting MSU’s long-term needs. 
“There is definitely a lot going on,” Hardy said. “We really try to make sure everyone can still move through campus smoothly as the projects are being completed.”
Jeffrey Guess, manager of parking operations, said the closure of Barr Avenue and George Perry Street is not detrimental to parking options on campus.
“Students who normally park in those areas that are now restricted may not have a parking spot that’s as close to their hall, but there are still plenty of parking options,” Guess said. “We haven’t had any complaints so far about parking and the blockade of the streets.”
Guess said gaining parking on campus is definitely a positive highlight in light of elevating enrollment each year.
“The parking garage classroom will really serve to benefit the students, staff and visitors,” Guess said.
According to Muzzi, construction projects other than the classroom-garage are pending and making progress.
“We’re currently waiting on approval for the new dining hall that will sit atop the existing tennis courts,” Muzzi said. “The documents are finished. We just need the OK.”
Muzzi said construction on the football stadium is almost complete and will be ready for the first fall 2014 football game. In addition, the Lee Hall renovation is set to be complete in May of this year.