Another major construction project is beginning at the University of New Mexico causing major upheaval to the University ecosystem.
In addition to the work on the Center for Collaborative Arts and Technology and the demolition of the old Humanities building to begin on a new one, UNM announced another project and associated road closure due to a small weed found growing through a walkway.
According to UNM Facilities Services, the plant is common crabgrass — its scientific name being “Digitaria sanguinalis” — a harmless garden weed found throughout the Southwest. However, due to the weed’s tendency to spread, the entire section of campus between Dane Smith and Johnson Gym will be closed to pedestrian and vehicle traffic until the weed removal is complete.
Facilities Services Public Information Officer Bill Ding wrote to the Daily Lobo that the closure was necessary to ensure student safety and the completion of the job in a timely and cost efficient manner.
“The nature of the loathsome crabgrass is its deep and powerful roots, which can crack through concrete and cause tripping hazards if not dealt with. That’s why we’re cracking open the concrete and preventing any foot traffic,” Ding wrote.
Students gave mixed responses to the continued construction around campus, with some believing the weed removal to be evidence of the University’s deep commitment to students.
“I guess, it’s nice to see that the University cares about updating facilities and that they’re dealing with the problem thoroughly. I remember one time a lightbulb in one of my classrooms burnt out, so they just demolished the building with people still inside. It shows that the admin cares,” UNM student Joe Schmoe said.
Other students expressed frustration with the rerouting and delays.
“This is ridiculous. I can’t be the only one that thinks this is ridiculous. You can’t just close down the main main path through campus to pick a weed. At this point, give me the shears and I’ll do it myself,” UNM student Ben Dover said.
The University maintains that the repairs should not interfere with the lived experience of the UNM community.
“This will not impede student life,” Ding said. “It won’t take long at all. Just, like, a year or three.”
Addison Fulton is the culture editor for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at culture@dailylobo.com or on X @dailylobo
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