150-Year-Old Smokestack To Be Reduced

[via Flickr]

Even though the powerhouse smokestack will not be becoming a cell phone tower, as was announced on Sunday night, significant changes will be made to the structure over October break. According to an all-campus email sent moments ago, the 150 foot tower will be reduced by 40 feet during. The reason behind the reduction is "to address a potential safety hazard related to the loosening brick," the email states.

For those worried about losing a memorable and historical part of the Vassar campus, hope is not completely lost. The email states that reconstruction will be considered because of "the structure’s historic and aesthetic characteristics. Interestingly, the email also notes that the Vassar and architectural historians were consulted. The smokestack dates back to the 1860s when the school first opened.

The project is a collaboration between the offices of Special Projects, Buildings and Grounds, and Finance and Administration.