NMSU to get new visual arts facility if voters approve capital outlay projects
A new visual arts facility would replace D.W. Williams Hall at NMSU if voters approve more than $27 million in capital outlay projects this November.
The 78-year-old building used to be a gymnasium, until it was transformed into an arts facility in 1972.
In fact, parts of the old gym are still visible. The gym’s original bleachers have remained upstairs.
Students and teachers say the building is too cramped. One room that stores 19th century paintings has a hole in the ceiling.
“Space is so limited here that we’re constantly jumping over each other,” said Megan Sowell, a studio art senior.
The school’s art gallery director fears leaky pipes and dust can potentially damage the collection. Humidifiers are inside the storage facilities as well, and need to be replaced at least once a day.
The rebuilding is part of over $131 million in proposed general obligation bonds for aging buildings at universities and colleges across the state.
If passed, construction on the new building will take about two years. It’ll be built in the adjacent parking lot. Once it’s completed, D.W. Williams Hall would be torn down.
