As students return to Highline for the winter quarter, they may notice some construction zones on campus. While these projects might cause temporary disruptions, they are part of a larger plan to enhance campus infrastructure and improve facilities for years to come. From updating aging storm and sewer lines to adding new security features, these efforts are designed to keep the campus running smoothly and safely.

The primary focus of this construction project is to replace outdated and damaged storm and sewer lines across the campus and to add new infrastructure to improve campus safety and accessibility. The construction is expected to be completed by mid-Feburary, with the work taking place in phases.

According to Zack Lambert, the project manager overseeing the work, these upgrades are long overdue. “Our storm drains have been damaged by tree roots growing into them…We’re also adding more drains in certain areas to help prevent pooling water.”

Highline College’s sewer lines, which were installed in the 1960s, are also being replaced. These outdated lines are no longer sufficient for the current number of students and faculty. These outdated lines are being replaced and upsized to handle the increased demand of a larger campus population.

Additionally, the college is adding new infrastructure to the east parking lot to support additional security cameras. Power and data lines are being run to specific light poles, enabling the installation of security cameras that will help Public Safety better monitor the area and improve overall campus security.

While the full project won’t be finished all at once, sections of the construction will be completed and accessible to students as work progresses. The phase’s approach is intended to minimize disruptions to campus life while still allowing the necessary upgrades to be made.

Like any large construction project, there have been some unexpected challenges. One of the more complicated areas have been the lawn between Building 23 and 25, where crews encountered an underground obstruction while installing a new sewer line. 

The team worked with the contractor to assess the situation and determine the best course of action, whether that means rerouting the line or finding another solution. Despite this, the overall timeline is still on track.

As with any construction project, safety is a priority. Lambert says, “There are no major safety concerns with this project. The contractors have been fencing off areas where they’re working, and we ask people to stay out of the fenced-off areas.”

Students should be aware of these fenced zones and avoid entering them. However, Lambert notes that there are no specific areas on campus that need to be completely avoided. Alternate pathways have been created to ensure minimal disruption to campus movement.

There have been some minor traffic disruptions in the east and north parking lots, where construction is taking place. To help manage these, signage has been put in place to direct drivers around the affected areas. These disruptions are not expected to cause major delays, but students are advised to allow extra time when parking on campus.

Public safety is also actively communicating with the campus community about any changes to access or parking. When disruptions are expected, messages are sent out to ensure everyone is informed and can plan accordingly.

The ongoing construction is part of a broader vision for the future of Highline. Lambert notes that there are always long-term plans for campus development, with one notable project being the construction of a new Welcome Center. 

However, he points out that this project is still a few years away, “The Welcome Center is in the long-term plans for the college. It’s not scheduled to happen for a couple of years, so any students here now will most likely be gone before it’s completed.”

Additionally, there are plans to repave the middle section of the east parking lot later in 2025. This will further improve campus infrastructure and ensure that the parking areas remain in great condition.

Though the ongoing construction may cause some temporary disruptions, the improvements being made will benefit the campus community for years to come. With upgrades to storm and sewer lines, new security features, and future development plans, Highline is investing in the infrastructure needed to support its growing student body and improve the overall campus.

Students and staff are encouraged to stay informed about construction progress and changes to campus access through Public Safety communications. With work expected to be completed by mid-Febuary, the campus will soon be better equipped to meet the needs of its students and staff while ensuring a safe and efficient learning environment.