Though Austin Hall now houses the major programs Bexell once held, the old building should be back in business with other programs later this year.

Processes to remodel Bexell Hall, which has been part of campus since 1922, began in winter 2016. The building, which fills more than 50,000 square feet of campus space, has most recently housed the new media communications and mathematics departments before being scheduled for renovations.

The total project budget stands at $5 million according to information on OSU’s Capital Planning and Development website. Construction began during winter 2016 and move in is currently slated for summer 2016. The exact month is currently slated for August 2016, according to the general contractor request made Oct. 19, 2015.

Previously, Bexell had been home to OSU’s College of Business until its move into the newly constructed Austin Hall building in fall 2014. Once completed, it will be new home to the College of Liberal Arts and the many activities and programs located within the college.

In addition to standard interior remodels, construction crews are working to assure that new classrooms, restrooms and central areas in the building meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, according to Steve Clark, vice president of university relations and marketing.

“As we remodel or improve existing building, we do a significant amount of ADA improvements,” Clark said.

Additional safety features, such as improved sprinkler systems, will also be included, Clark added.

More information on major construction projects throughout the university can be found on their website at http://fa.oregonstate.edu/construction/current-projects.