|
Related |
PULLMAN – Work on the remodeling and updating of Bryan Clock Tower began wrapping up on Friday, Aug. 6, as crews from Golis Construction of Moscow began installing new clock faces into the tower.
The historic wood clock faces, nearly 100 years old, and the mechanical clock works were removed earlier this summer, as the new metal faces and clock works were constructed.
The new clock faces are made of aluminum, reinforced with steel. The old clock motor and gear-drives are being replaced with four individual clock mechanisms connected to a computerized controller.
No aesthetic changes are being made. The goal is to keep the landmark clock as original looking as possible.
To improve safety and maintenance, and reduce cost, the new clock faces will be hinged, allowing all future maintenance work to be done from inside Bryan Tower.
The remodeling project was designed by architect Richard Kizer, WSU Capital Planning and Development.
Since the original installation of the clock works in 1911, workers have had to suspend themselves by ropes from the tower, about 113 feet off the ground, to perform maintenance work — including painting the clock face and changing neon light bulbs. (see historic photos in related articles)
Golis Construction Superintendent Brien Golis said the project has gone pretty smoothly, and his crew had to improvise, especially when hoisting the large clock faces, that are 10 feet in diameter, to the top of the clock tower. He said the clocks should be up and running sometime this week.