The University of Wyoming’s Board of Trustees voted Wednesday to approve a $2 million contract with Laramie firm Elk Ridge Builders & Design, LLC for the renovation of Hoyt Hall.  Elk Ridge was one of four companies that bid on the project.

The renovation of Hoyt Hall will bring the building up to code through accessibility and life-safety augmentations.  Interior finishes in study areas, offices, and classrooms will be improved.  The existing fire alarm system will be replaced and restrooms will be renovated.  In addition, energy-efficient upgrades will be made to current lighting, and new electrical and data systems wiring will be installed.

Hoyt Hall was constructed in 1916 as a women’s dormitory, but now houses the UW Department of English and the Department of Modern and Classical Languages.  The faculty and staff of these departments have moved into Crane Hall for the time being, and will remain there until all work is completed.

The renovation will begin in January, once unexpected structural repairs are completed.  If work proceeds according to plans, the building can be reoccupied before the fall semester of 2016 begins.

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