Earthquake stabilization work on Main Hall.

The renovation of the University of Montana Western’s iconic and first building, Main Hall, is moving along according to schedule in addition to several other building upgrades across campus.

Main Hall — comprised of the original 1897 building, the 1907 addition, the 1924 library building and the 1951 auditorium addition — is receiving a major renovation in a two-part renovation and preservation project.

Swank Construction is proceeding on Phase I of the Main Hall renovation and preservation project, which focuses on infrastructure. The asbestos removal project on the Main Hall tunnels is complete. Work is proceeding to finish the extensive mechanical, electrical and earthquake stabilization on the first, second and third floors of the 1896 building and the first and second floor of the 1907 building.

Phase I is being funded by $4.5 million authorized by the 2007 Montana Legislature. A portion of the monies was used for the programming and design development of the entire Main Hall complex renovation project. The remaining dollars are being used in actual construction.

Phase II will be funded with a $6 million allocation from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009, the federal stimulus package. Montana Western Vice Chancellor Susan Briggs said she expects Phase II to be ready for bidding in the spring of 2010.

Phase II is slated to include a connecting link, which will create new entrances to Main Hall while connecting three eras of the building. The new link will provide two new lobbies, both at the first floor entrance and at the entrance of the Beier Auditorium. A new elevator and new bathrooms are also included in Phase II plans. Both Phases I and II include replacing all of the buildings windows with energy efficient windows. Phase II will complete the 1896 and 1907 renovations.

In addition to the Main Hall project, three Dillon, Mont. firms have been busy on the University of Montana Western campus since May 2009 completing several remodeling projects.

Dillon’s KB Construction, in partnership with Diamond Construction of Helena, Mont., completed an upgrade project at the IT Woods building. The project upgraded the ventilation systems, added new office spaces for the business and technology department and finished the new office simulation center.

Hilton Electric of Dillon, Mont. completed work on the electrical system of the Physical Education Complex. The project replaced existing transformers, electrical panels and wiring.

West Electric of Dillon, Mont. completed an energy-saving project, which replaced the old light fixtures in the upper gymnasium with energy efficient fixtures.

The Block Hall energy and building efficiency project was completed by Tri-County Mechanical of Helena, Mont. and Butte, Mont. The project upgraded the ventilation and heating systems. With the upgrades, the building is 20 to 30 percent more energy efficient.