Two residence halls receive $4.7 million renovations

Wright and Ridge residence halls are open again this academic year after a year's worth of renovations.

The 160 beds in both residence halls feature new air conditioning and heating units, electrical upgrades, and new furniture and flooring. The bathrooms were also expanded to include new tiling, fixtures and ventilation, and new entrances welcome students in both halls. The $4.7 million project was funded through bond proceeds from fall 2017.

"The upgrades to Wright and Ridge are part of a comprehensive plan to renovate our residence halls," says Vice President of Facilities and University Operations Michael Reca. "Residence halls are a huge part of the student experience and providing necessary upgrades is a focal point over the next few years."

The Facilities Master Plan calls for similar renovations in six residence halls so far. In fall 2017, Gee Hall reopened to students after receiving a complete interior renovation, similar to Wright and Ridge, while Hill and Ziegler residence halls received electrical upgrades, and new air conditioning and heating units.

The next phase of renovations will begin this December in Kroner Hall, followed by renovations in Lake House and Delta Phi Epsilon in summer 2019. This phase will also be funded by $6.6 million in bond proceeds from fall 2017. These residence halls will all feature air conditioning, new furniture, bathrooms and electrical upgrades.

Other renovations to the Bart Luedeke Center, Sweigart Hall and the Science and Technology building began in the summer and will be complete this fall with additional projects scheduled.