Boone continues to experience significant construction activity, with various projects underway across the town and Appalachian State University campus. Many sites are currently marked by orange cones and caution tape, indicating ongoing work, with some projects nearing completion this year and others projected for longer timelines.
The Town of Boone recently announced a major milestone in its Howard Street Revitalization Project, confirming that the sidewalks and bike lanes are 95% complete. This initiative is designed to enhance pedestrian and cyclist accessibility and aesthetic appeal along Howard Street, incorporating a new pedestrian pathway, dedicated bike lanes, new benches for public use, and upgrades to existing lighting and landscaping. Updates on the progress of this revitalization effort are regularly provided.
Adjacent to the Howard Street work, Appalachian State University's Peacock Hall is also undergoing significant transformation. The facility is receiving partial renovations alongside a substantial 70,000-square-foot addition. As of August, the project has surpassed the halfway mark, with the university anticipating a full opening in 2027. The new addition is planned to feature modern classrooms, a dedicated learning lab, new office spaces, and versatile event areas, aiming to expand the university's academic and administrative capabilities.
Further enhancing the university's academic infrastructure, the STEM Academic Building, located within App State's Innovation District, was 62% complete as of August. This advanced facility is scheduled to open in the summer of 2028. It is designed to house modern laboratories, a sizable 100-person classroom and event space, and a greenhouse dedicated to research and hands-on instruction, supporting scientific and technological education.
In the same Innovation District, construction on Innovation Ridge, which serves as the residential counterpart to the academic building, has concluded. Its four remaining buildings officially opened to residents over the summer. These completed structures collectively provide 156 housing units specifically designated for faculty and staff, addressing a key need for university personnel accommodation.
App State's athletic facilities are also seeing considerable development, with the Sofield Indoor Practice facility reported to be nearly 75% complete as of August. This new facility is slated for full completion by December. It will replace the previous indoor practice area and feature an expanded practice field, increasing its length to 100 yards. This upgrade is intended to provide increased practice space for a majority of the university's athletic programs, supporting student-athletes.
Another significant project addressing campus needs is the Appalachian 105 Student Housing development, which reached 70% completion as of August. This extensive project is expected to be fully finished by fall 2027. According to Appalachian State University, the initiative is specifically designed to meet the growing demand for on-campus housing. Upon completion, it will offer 852 beds for non-first-year students. Additionally, the development will provide nearly 1,000 surface parking spots on what was formerly the university's 105 parking lot, significantly increasing parking capacity alongside student accommodations.
