Mason’s Mortarboard

The addition to the de Laski Performing Arts Building (PAB) is currently under construction. Consequently, the entire grassy area between the PAB and the Johnson Center is fenced-off. Two main entrances to the PAB on the building’s east side will be inaccessible for the duration of the project.

However, all classes in the PAB will still take place as scheduled. Two second-floor entrances remain fully functional on the west side between the PAB and the Center for the Arts, directly across from the Mason Pond Parking Deck. A third entrance on the south side of the PAB accesses the ground floor. Signs are in place to designate each entrance.

Once construction is complete in summer 2010, the addition will add dance and orchestra practice spaces, larger performance halls and a training room for performers. The building will be a recognizable landmark on campus with its grand entrance facing the Johnson Center circle on Aquia Creek Lane.

On an expanding campus that’s home to a growing number of students, there’s one topic of conversation that frequently arises: parking.

For the last two years, Mason’s Fairfax Campus has adjusted to a number of parking lot closures. In most cases, new academic buildings and student housing projects were taking the place of these old lots.

But in one case, the space formerly known as Lot F that held 939 parking spaces was closed in order to build a ginormous, five-level, 2,650 space parking deck. Officially named the Rappahannock River Parking Deck, it has sections available for students, employees and visitors – much like Sandy Creek Parking Deck, but with twice the capacity.

Now that the deck has reached completion, it’s time to celebrate. The grand opening will be held on Thursday, August 13 at 10 a.m. at the southeast corner of the deck across the street from the Hampton Roads residence hall.

Dr. Merten will take the liberty of being the first person to park in the deck.

Cake and beverages will be available and gifts will be given out. Though the deck is complete, it will not officially open to all vehicles until Mason receives the necessary occupancy permit. The permit is expected to be awarded within the next week.