It reminds you of activity on an ant hill. Construction equipment scurries here and there, carrying dirt, dumping dirt, digging holes, filling holes, in a synchronized choreography that will lead to a new parking lot along the north side of Columbia International University’s entrance – International Boulevard, just behind the Alumni Center.

It’s all a part of the summer of construction and renovation on the campus of CIU. The parking lot will provide needed vehicle space for commuting students and for guests attending community events that take place at CIU and at Ben Lippen, CIU's Pre-K to 12th grade Christian school. 

In addition, the interior of Petty and Walker residence halls are being completely renovated over the summer, including the student rooms and hall baths. The work is scheduled to be complete when fall semester classes begin in late August.   

CIU’s strategic three-year plan includes improvements to the Fisher Building and Shortess Chapel, additions to Pine View Apartments and completion of the new intercollegiate athletic fields to make way for baseball and softball programs.