Hazardous to Healthy: Behind the Scenes at Houghton University's Gillete Hall!

August 18, 2025

Today's field work post features a large-scale renovation project Watts has been part of since 2022 at Houghton.  Randy and Tali from our Regulated Building Materials team submitted photos and background information to share. 

According to Randy "Watts' initial involvement began in Gillette Hall (which is to be renamed to East Hall) through an asbestos survey to understand what was present within the building. Watts completed a pilot program for the university, providing detailed tables and photos throughout each wing of the building (see image). In early 2025, we were invited to be part of the Design Build Renovation Project alongside Clark, Patterson, Lee Architecture, Kinley Contractors and Houghton University. The renovations include flooring and ceiling replacements, the addition of a second elevator system, a complete roof replacement and other exterior improvements and a ton of asbestos abatement which Watts is also providing the Project Monitoring for." 

This is where Tali comes into play. She is pictured here wearing full PPE. She was on the fourth floor where they'll be installing an elevator. She was doing final air sampling before the building received a final clearance. 

You can read more about Houghton's $10.4 M renewal project here.