Despite delays, the multi-million dollar renovations to the Mechanical and Electrical Engineering buildings should be completed by 1994.

The project -- first approved in 1984 -- is funded by state and private donations, said Barbara Bogue, spokeswoman for the University's engineering department.

The state held back funds because of budget cutbacks, but construction began April 1, after Gov. Robert P. Casey released the money to the University.

The buildings were built in the 1930s and are being modernized, said Kim Ripka, an administrative aide in mechanical engineering.

Construction crews are renovating the buildings from bottom to top, Ripka said.

The projects -- which cost $13.48 million -- entail adding a third floor to the Mechanical Engineering Building and 10,000 feet to the existing structure to provide for more labs, classrooms, a library and new computer system, Bogue said.

In addition to delays because of the budget, asbestos was discovered in Mechanical Engineering West, Ripka said, adding that the state will monitor funds for asbestos clean-up.

Construction workers said they are taking full precautions during asbestos cleanup.

For the duration of the construction, several mechanical and electrical engineering classes were moved into trailers near the buildings.

But one student said the benefits of the renovations make the temporary change worthwhile.

"It doesn't bother you that much," said John Juba (senior-mechanical engineering) "They needed it."

And relocation does not bother one mechanical engineering professor.

"The inconveniences endures for modern conveniences," said Gary Koopman.