
Dear Neighbors,
We’re excited to announce that construction-related activities begin this month on the University of Mary Washington’s new theatre – a fresh academic home for the Department of Theatre and Dance that will be a student-focused hub of arts enrichment designed to inspire creativity and foster student success.
What’s happening and when:
- Demolition of Brent House starts this month.
- Once complete, demolition will proceed at Marshall and Russell Halls.
- The Marshall hill roadway and the Marshall and Russell parking lots are closed for the duration of the project.
We recognize the impacts you may experience. Loud noise, dust and increased activity during demolition and construction are expected – and will mostly be contained to campus – but we know you’ll feel some impact as neighbors. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding during this time. Every effort will be made to mitigate and minimize impacts to surrounding areas.
Here’s how we’re working to keep things in check:
- Limits on Construction and Erosion & Sediment Control: We’ll implement best-practice erosion control measures, including silt fencing, dust suppression systems, perimeter fencing and stabilized construction entrances.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Dedicated environmental staff will conduct regular inspections to ensure all controls are functioning effectively, even in changing weather.
- Construction Timelines: Demolition and major work will take place in accordance with the City of Fredericksburg noise ordinance, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.
We’re working hand-in-hand with the city to minimize traffic disruptions, maintain clean streets, and rebuild this corner of campus to connect with downtown and our neighbors. In addition, we’re completing parking lot maintenance throughout the summer. Crews will be on campus to mill, pave, seal and stripe several parking lots, including improvements for drainage at the Sunken Road parking entrance. We hope these updates will enhance safety, function and appearance, and we appreciate your patience as this work is completed.
Staying in touch:
- Updates are available on the campus construction website and via this community newsletter.
- Please share with your neighbors and invite them to sign up for this newsletter and the President’s Community E-Newsletter.
Thank you for your cooperation as we work along the Sunken Road side of the Fredericksburg campus and build a new cultural landmark that adds value for our students, our campus and the surrounding neighborhoods and community.
Warm regards,
Brian Gorham
Assistant Vice President, Facilities Operations and Capital Outlay
University of Mary Washington

