The WVU Water Tower was last painted in 2007.
Tapping into the power of optics, the West Virginia University skyline will get brighter with planned improvements in the coming months for the iconic University Water Tower on the Evansdale area of campus.
“The heartfelt pride we all feel for this University should be physically reflected on our campus grounds which serve as a critical initial introduction for visitors — whether they be prospective students, University supporters or community members,” President Michael T. Benson said.
“The highly visible WVU Water Tower serves as a beacon that reminds us of the important work we are doing each day to prepare our students for the world. It encourages us all to look up with optimism.”
Hope Gas will sponsor the work to ensure site safety, structural integrity and ease of maintenance in the future.
“Such a recognizable campus fixture must reflect the best of West Virginia’s University and I am grateful for our strong partnership with Hope Gas which will allow us to make necessary improvements,” Benson said.
Work to clean the tank surface will begin soon followed by painting and sealing to protect against the weather elements while keeping in place the well-known “Flying WV” logo at the top. The tank was last painted in 2007.
WVU Water Tower renderings
Tower additions will include the installation of LED lighting — designed by City Neon — around the University’s logo to allow for illumination for all to see for miles during times of Athletics and other celebrations along with special occasions.
“There are so many things to celebrate in Morgantown and across West Virginia,” Morgan O’Brien, Hope Gas president and CEO, said. “Hope Gas is proud to support President Benson’s vision of refurbishing an already recognizable fixture in Morgantown to visually celebrate the big wins of Mountaineers.”
The projected timeline for the completion of the upgrade work is weather dependent.
O’Brien noted the work would not be possible without partnerships with the West Virginia Building and Construction Trades and the International Union Painters and Allied Trades District Council 53.
“Skilled trades are an essential part of the everyday work conducted at Hope Gas and play an important role in countless projects,” O’Brien said. “The hard work and expertise of our skilled trades partners will bring this project to life and I would like to thank them for their support.”
A water tower has been part of the landscape for the Evansdale area of campus since the 1960s. At one point, the 80,000 gallon storage tank served as a “surge tank” for fire suppression systems and drinking water.
“The work of our highly skilled trades men and women will be showcased as we help turn the WVU Water Tower into an asset that will celebrate University successes for many years to come,” said Justin Williams, director of the West Virginia Building and Construction Trades.
“This project highlights the real value partnerships among industry, labor and education can bring to communities across the Mountain State.”
The gift for tank aesthetic improvements was made through the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University.