Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville is continually improving their classrooms and building to keep up with technology changes. With the renovation of Ullrich Hall, the challenge is updating the classrooms while keeping the historical integrity of the building.

A $6.956 million dollar renovation of Ullrich Hall began in November.

Physical plant director Jim Valaskey said maintaining the historical aspect of the exterior of the building was important.

"With the exception of new windows, the exterior will remain the same," Valaskey said.

During the bidding process, the university looked for contractors with experience in historical preservation during the bidding process. River Architects of La Crosse was tabbed to do the construction.

Crews began stripping the building and moving materials out in November. Because of the state budget situation when Gov. Jim Doyle took office, the project was held up for three months while it went under another review.

Ullrich Hall is scheduled to be complete a year from now, December 2004, with the first classes being held in spring 2005.

"The project will convert that building into computer labs and high-tech classrooms," Valaskey said. "Everyone feels the schedule is doable. It's going to be tight, but it's doable," Valaskey said.