The fountain in the Quad recently sprung a leak, but rather than just patching the problem, Facility Services is planning to renovate the fountain to be more like its original design.
The concrete of the pool of the fountain had failed, and water was leaking into the grass and walkways, according to Bobby Pitre, executive director of Facility and Utility Operations. He said the leaking water created a slipping hazard to passers-by.
The project cost about $12,000, Pitre said.
“It’ll be worth it,” he said. “It will be a great addition to the Quad.”
Outside contractors have been hired to perform the renovations, which include new lights and spray links, according to Pitre.
The side facing the Quad and the rear end of the fountain, which faces Dodson Auditorium, will be restored, Pitre said.
A bowl in the corridor faces Dodson where many students toss cigarette butts, but it was once part of the working fountain, he said.
The original design had a large tiger head above the rear bowl with water dripping down, Pitre said. In the 1930s and 1940s, the rear bowl with the tiger head was a drinking fountain, Pitre said.
Facility Services plans to restore the fountain with the addition of a new tiger head.
“We’d like to have it functional for the renaming of the [Agricultural] Administration Building in April,” Pitre said.
The fountain once looked more professional, Pitre said, referring to the PVC pipes that currently inhabit the pool.
Connor Beck, engineering freshman, said the fountain is currently an eyesore but believes it will add beauty to the Quad once it’s running again.
Jenny Wyrick, communication disorders senior, said the fountain “has a lot of tradition so I’m really excited to hear they’re fixing it.”
 
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Contact Parker Cramer at [email protected]