Austin Community College District (ACC) is making improvements to the 45-year-old Highland Business Center (also referenced as Highland Campus, Building 8000). The most noticeable improvement will be an elevator modernization project. Crews will soon begin work to update the two existing traction elevators that are original to the building.
Many of the elevator systems’ electronic and mechanical parts are outdated and need replacement. To bring the elevators up to current code requirements the College will conduct a complete refurbishment. The interior cabins will be preserved.
Last summer, the Board of Trustees approved moving forward with a contract with TK Elevator Corporation for elevator modernization services at HBC. The estimated cost is $680,000 and is being funded out of the facilities improvement budget.
Work is scheduled to begin at the end of April or the beginning of May 2025.
Other HBC Improvements
The building is also undergoing roofing and lightning protection improvements.
The College chose to repair the roof as a cost-effective and less disruptive alternative to a full roof replacement to address long-standing issues related to water intrusion and safety risks. In addition to significantly reducing the likelihood of future leaks, the reflective coating helps improve the building’s energy efficiency by minimizing heat absorption.
The College is also installing a comprehensive lightning protection system. This upgrade will help protect the facility from the damaging effects of lightning strikes. The system is designed to direct electrical surges safely into the ground, thereby reducing the risk of harm to building infrastructure, electronic equipment, and occupants.
These improvements began in early April 2024, and work is expected to be fully completed in the first half of May.