In a telephone conference call, Lincoln University curators on Wednesday approved two construction contracts worth more than $844,000.
One will renovate part of the student union building, while the other will raze several vacant houses to make way for construction of the proposed new Wellness Center and the future home of the Boys and Girls Club.
Wisch and Vaughan Construction Co. (WAVCO), Jefferson City, will be paid $677,600 for renovating the Scruggs University Center cafeteria dining area and lounge.
A memo to school administrators and curators from Sheila Gassner, LU's facilities and planning executive director, said the work includes new flooring, painting, electrical upgrades to lighting and to additional outlets, ceiling work and a new service counter in the lounge.
WAVCO was the lowest of three local bidders for the project.
American Pride Hauling Inc., Centertown, was the lowest among six bidders for a contract demolishing vacant buildings on and near the LU campus.
Curators agreed to a $166,625 contract for the demolition of "all houses in the block south of the Sherman Scruggs Hall" as well as three homes at 923 Atchison St. and at 720 and 724 Lafayette St.
The houses south of the Scruggs dormitory sit on the future location of the new Wellness Center and future Boys and Girls Club facility that curators discussed last month. Groundbreaking ceremonies are planned in October for that building.
Gassner said the other homes would be replaced with "a grassy lot," since "no plans are slated for these areas" right now.
The project includes asbestos abatement and the removal of hazardous materials.