UK Transforms Campus for Springtime

By Blake Jackson

The Grounds team is planting fresh flowers in key areas, including blue, white, red, and yellow blooms to highlight graduation and other events. These flower beds are carefully planned for size, height, and color coordination to make the campus visually appealing. The team is also repairing turf damaged by winter and trimming hedges for healthy growth and safety visibility.

“One of our main goals is creating a physical campus environment that our students, faculty, staff and visitors can enjoy” said Corey Baker, grounds manager. “The grounds team is passionate about caring for the university grounds and enjoys showcasing our abilities and talents so students and families can enjoy flowers blooming throughout the season and for special events such as graduation photos and summer orientation.”

Campus roads are also receiving attention, with potholes being repaired for safer travel.

Meanwhile, the Campus Maintenance team is transitioning systems from heating to cooling. Over 200 buildings had their chilled water coils drained during winter, and maintenance teams cleaned and checked equipment. Now, systems are fully refilled and ready to cool buildings using “free cooling,” which saves energy by using cooler outdoor air.

“The campus cooling system operates on an energy-efficient method known as free cooling, which takes advantage of lower external air temperatures to assist in cooling buildings,” said Harold “Tree” Sandford, associate director of campus maintenance and operations. “This approach not only helps maintain comfort in campus buildings but also aligns with Facilites Mangement’s commitment to sustainable and economical building operations.”

The Utilities and Energy Management (UEM) team is also prepared for unpredictable spring weather. They maintain chillers, cooling towers, and heating systems while staying alert to any weather-related issues. Two of the three heating plants will stay active for hot water and medical needs.

From blooming flowers to efficient buildings, spring at the University of Kentucky is a season of renewal. Thanks to careful planning and hard work, the campus stays both beautiful and functional.

Photo Credit: university-of-kentucky