Millions in upgrades ready for students this fall

With more than 700 new students set to arrive on campus this week, Augustana College is wrapping up a $7-million investment in summer construction.

Among the improvements to campus is a $5-million remodel of one wing of Westerlin Residence Center, the college's largest residence hall, housing more than 450 students. The renovated wing will feature refreshed rooms with new windows, closets, floors and air conditioning. The remaining two wings will be renovated during the next few summers, with a total renovation cost of $13 million.

"Investing in our beautiful campus helps Augustana become even more attractive to prospective students, and sends a message about the importance of a residential campus to learning," said Augustana President Steve Bahls. In 2014, Thrillist named Augustana one of the 25 most beautiful college campuses in the country.

Across campus, roofs and steam lines have been replaced and buildings have been tuck-pointed, among other projects.

The college will open its 156th academic year at an opening convocation on Thursday, Aug. 20 at 1 p.m. in the Roy J. Carver Center (3500 5th Ave., Rock Island).