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Long Walk Restoration and Renovation
In 2008, Trinity College's Long Walk received a $32.9 million restoration and renovation. The Long Walk is comprised of Seabury Hall, Jarvis Hall (both 1878) and Northam Towers (1883), which are the oldest buildings constructed on the Summit Street campus, are “prime examples of High Victorian Collegiate Gothic architecture and have long been the College's signature buildings” (Trinity Reporter, Fall 2008).
The project came under the direction of College President James Jones Jr. In 2005, during routine repairs, workers uncovered significant signs of aging, particularly around the 88 dormers that line the roofs. It quickly became apparent that it was necessary to undertake a massive restoration of the 925-foot-long complex. (Reporter, 2008).
The architects for the 81,389-square-foot project were Smith Edwards of Hartford [now QA+M Architecture] and the renovations were undertaken by Consigli Construction Company. The carefully planned and executed project was made easier thanks to the original building plans that had been located several years prior in Trinity's archives by College Archivist Peter Knapp, Class of 1965.
The project included restoring stone masonry, replacing steel windows, leaded glass, slate roofing and copper flashings, copper gutter systems, and stone ornamentation. The firm also reconstructed original entry and suite layouts, then renovated interiors to provide code-complying exit ways and fire stairs, new bathroom facilities, restored finishes, and new furnishings.
Some students were annoyed by the College's quick decision to begin the renovation. In particular, students living in Jarvis Hall were frustrated by the lack of entry and exit ways. Students living in the dorm questioned the lottery system as well, questioning if the College's renovation would be factored into their numbers. Parking was another issue, with 50 faculty spots lost to the project.
To celebrate the completion of the renovation and restoration project, an exhibit by College Archivist Peter Knapp was held at the Watkinson Library from September 2008 to January 2009.