Despite the groundbreaking ceremony on May 9, Ball State University's geothermal project hasn't begun its construction phase.
The construction happening outside of Noyer Complex is unrelated, according to a campus representative.
The weeks following the groundbreaking ceremony were spent receiving bids from contractors for the project.
"Right now, we're reviewing bids for the first phase, looking a subcontractors and checking references, and we'll make an award in the next few days," Jim Lowe, director of engineering and operations, said.
Construction for the first phase will involve drilling 1,750 wells in the athletic fields southwest of Anthony Apartments and the parking lot west of Carmichael.
As many as 10 drilling rigs will be operating at the same time in order to get the first two well fields done as quickly as possible.
Both are set to be finished by Aug. 1, 2010.
This is part of the first phase of the project, which is to be completed in three years, said Lowe. After that, most buildings north of Riverside Avenue will be heated by geothermal energy.
The energy generated from this first phase will be enable the university to shut off two of its coal boilers.
By the end of the second phase, which will last four to five years, any remaining buildings north of Riverside Avenue and all buildings south will be heated by geothermal energy.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
