The Quadrangle is undergoing minor external renovations, highlighted by the replacement of the original wraught-iron fence that was erected in 1954.
The $1.2 million project is scheduled for completion in mid-December and includes the complete replacement of the fence and its brick and sandstone foundations.
Students living in the Upper Quad, the area most affected, are unhappy with the loud disruption caused by the construction, though many acknowledge that it's only temporary.
"Every morning it's something," said College freshman Emily Gerard, who lives in McKean at the far end of Upper Quad.
"Earplugs don't really work when it's a jackhammer," she said.
"The construction was extremely loud," said College sophomore Brandon Baker, who lives in the Upper Quad.
But "I don't mind if I'm woken up if it's for the good of the student body," he added.
Housing and Conference Services spokeswoman Dana Matkevich said that steps are being taken to keep construction between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., but she noted that noise is associated with any construction project.
The project was spurred by "structural deteriorations" to the fence's foundation that were caused by drainage and freezing cycles, Matkevich said.
Two temporary fences have been erected in the meantime to ensure student safety in areas where construction is taking place.
Construction began this summer with the demolition of the old fence, and replacement began several weeks ago with work behind the Upper Quad.
"If it's for safety, I guess it's a good reason," Gerard said.
