Belknap Hall Isn't Going Anywhere

One week down, but rumors have already begun to spread of changes to the PSU campus. Students have been shocked to hear recent reports that Belknap Hall will be removed from the University. Belknap, which was built as a women’s residence in 1969, became the first co-ed residence on campus in 1974, and has a capacity of 250 students. 

Rumors of Belknap’s departure began earlier this fall when plans to remodel the dorm required rooms to be vacant for the 2014-2015 academic year. However, Residential Life director Thomas Weeks denies allegations of a permanent closure. 

“Belknap is not going away,” said Weeks. “We’re taking the opportunity this year to do some remodeling. As we look at where Plymouth State is going we’re looking at what our housing needs are, what the best use of Belknap is, and our budget.”

With the aid of funding and various donations, PSU’s campus has benefited from several renovations in the past, including a $12 million project to completely update Mary Lyon Hall with new windows, roofing, and furniture, while still preserving its historical design. 

Often, past renovations to the campus have been conducted while residents remained in their dorms or academic buildings during the school year. With the temporary shutdown of Belknap, interests have risen regarding the changes that may be in store for the dorm’s residents. 

“It may be just doing some upgrades to the building; doing some work that’s needed to be done that couldn’t really be done when it’s fully occupied,” said Weeks.  “We’re looking at things like, does the elevator need to be replaced, or the ceiling tiles in the rooms. That’s something that’s been on our radar that we needed to do, but it’s a major project, and something that’s hard to do when the building is occupied.”

Possible additions could also be added to Belknap to increase space for other students. “There are some graduate programs that are up and coming at the University, and maybe there’s an opportunity for housing for a different graduate population or doctoral students.” Along with housing, the University has been making plans for major projects to attract a higher income of undergraduate, as well as graduate students, in the immediate future. 

Students can also be assured that these building renovations will not have a significant impact on their tuition and fees. “We do our best to keep our rates reasonable,” Weeks said. “We don’t necessarily operate at a profit, since we know it can be financially difficult for students to attend college.” Weeks also mentioned when upgrades are planned, as it is for the benefit and comfort of the student population, and not the finances of the University. Often less noticeable changes are made simply for security and optimum efficiency. “We put a lot of money into the mechanical systems of the buildings to make sure that they’re safe.” These mechanical systems include up to date fire alarm and sprinkler systems, heating, and properly ventilated bathrooms, among other necessities.

Weeks also confirmed that innovative security features such as proximity readers to allow card access into dorms are being discussed, “I think we’re probably moving in that direction. I just want to make sure we’re doing it at the right time and that we’ve got the systems in place on campus to support that.”

In regards to other dorms, recent updates were made to Blair Hall including heating and electrical upgrades, and a newly renovated lobby area. The plans for Belknap are projected to be completed by the beginning of the 2015-2016 academic year. 

For further inquiries, students can contact Thomas Weeks at thomasw@plymouth.edu, or check for regular updates on MyPlymouth under Residential Life.