Austin Community College District (ACC) is making improvements to the 45-year-old Highland Business Center (also referenced as Highland Campus, Building 8000). The most noticeable improvement will be an elevator modernization project. Crews will soon begin work to update the two existing traction elevators that are original to the building.
The elevators have been breaking down regularly and require frequent servicing, which has become very expensive for the College. Many of the elevator systems’ electronic and mechanical parts are outdated and need replacement.
To bring the elevators up to current code requirements and address the aging components so that they will perform dependably for many years, the College will conduct a complete refurbishment. The interior cabins will be preserved.
Last summer, the Board of Trustees approved moving forward with a contract with TK Elevator Corporation for elevator modernization services at HBC. The estimated cost is $680,000 and is being funded out of the facilities improvement budget.
Work is scheduled to begin at the end of April or the beginning of May 2025.
The project will occur in two phases, with each phase taking roughly three months to complete. One elevator will be worked on at a time, allowing the other elevator to remain active for use. Phase 1 will be the right-hand elevator, and Phase 2 will be the left-hand elevator.
Building occupants should expect to hear construction-related noises throughout the project. The small team of contractors will minimize mess and sound volume where feasible.
ACC Campus Planning & Construction and ACC Safety & Emergency Management have reviewed the scope of the project to ensure a safe working and learning environment for all occupants throughout the project.
Other HBC Improvements
The building is also undergoing roofing and lightning protection improvements. By implementing these improvements together, ACC is taking a proactive approach to ensure the long-term resilience, safety, and operational continuity of HBC.
The College chose to repair the roof as a cost-effective and less disruptive alternative to a full roof replacement to address long-standing issues related to water intrusion and safety risks. The application of a Tremco coating system will extend the life of the existing roof by approximately 20 to 25 years. In addition to significantly reducing the likelihood of future leaks, the reflective coating helps improve the building’s energy efficiency by minimizing heat absorption. Most importantly, the system allows the College to maintain building operations throughout the project, as it does not require a complete roof tear-off.
The College is also installing a comprehensive lightning protection system. This critical upgrade will help protect the facility from the damaging effects of lightning strikes. The system is designed to direct electrical surges safely into the ground, thereby reducing the risk of harm to building infrastructure, electronic equipment, and occupants.
These improvements began in early April 2024, and work is expected to be fully completed in the first half of May. While doing the work, several previously undetected leak points were identified and have since been successfully addressed. Once the remaining work is finished, the building will be fully sealed and well protected.