Flash player is required to view weather conditions. Download

site web  

Oxford's Community Arts Center has continued its extensive renovation projects through the fall, gradually making the building accessible for all visitors.

Phase I renovations began in the summer with the primary intent of improving the handicap accessibility to the building that dates back to 1849 when it served as the home of the Oxford College for Women. A handicap-accessible women's restroom was recently completed, with a men's restroom in the beginning stages of construction. A major component of the restroom renovations includes installing modern plumbing, as the systems installed in the 1920s are situated above the floor and restricts accessibility.

A four-story elevator shaft has been completed despite several obstacles that are common in renovations of buildings of this age. While constructing the shaft, it was discovered that not all of the floors were entirely level, forcing the builders to even them before moving on with the project.

In order to lay the concrete base for the shaft a large amount of water had to be pumped out of the basement of the building, adding to construction time. Due to its age, much of the brick that surrounded the shaft was in need of repair. Because of the obvious danger that the crumbling brick presented, employees of the center were urged to exit the building to insure their safety while it was repaired.

Sarah Michael, president of the center, appreciates the precautions taken by foreman Bob Overtoom and his crew from Oberle Construction throughout the project.

"They are a very cautious, very careful crew," she said.

Because much of the upper level of the building served as dorm rooms for women attending the college, workers have found several artifacts left by students. These include a gold locket and a very early edition of the Miami Student. Michael has collected these items for possible future use.

Other projects included in Phase I include handicap accessible parking at the lower level, a new service line and sprinklers throughout the center, and new electric services. Michael hopes to have these projects completed by January 2007.

A number or future projects are in development. A letter of intent was recently signed by the Smith Library of Regional History to move from its current location in Lane Public Library into space that formerly served as a formal living room in the Center.

Other future projects include the renovation of the center's auditorium and art gallery. However, additional fundraising will be required before these next stages can begin.

"We hope in five years we'll be up and running with a lot of programs," Michael said.