Beam signing planned
for new conference center

A public beam signing ceremony will give everyone a chance to leave a permanent mark on the new High Country Conference Center at Flagstaff.

The event, which is open to the NAU community and the public, is scheduled from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 12, at the construction site across from the North Union on Dupont Avenue. Guests will have an opportunity to sign one of the steel beams that will become a part of the new structure.

NAU President John Haeger called the event "a way to include everyone on a project that will have a long-term and significant impact on the campus and community." In the future, the conference center is expected to generate $7 million annually in economic development for Flagstaff.

The hotel-conference center complex is a joint partnership among NAU, the city of Flagstaff, the Arizona Board of Regents and Drury Hotels. A 160-room hotel is planned along with a 42,000-square-foot conference center and adjoining parking structure.

Parking for the event will be available along DuPont Avenue as well as on McMullen Circle. Staff will assist with directing traffic.

Hors d'oeuvres and refreshments will be provided. Guests should wear closed-toe shoes. RSVP to (928) 523-8821 by July 6.