The demolition phase of DeHority Complex's renovation plan began this week.
According to Ball State University's Newscenter Web site, the Board of Trustees approved the $24.6 million plan in 2007.
Alan Hargrave, director of housing and residential life, said demolition was the first phase. Crews are removing asbestos, tearing up floor tile and dismantling the halls' front lounge, he said.
Manager of Campus Construction Gary Canaday said Midwest Demolition Company would finish its work by April 17.
Hargrave said the project would begin bidding for the construction phase later in the semester.
According to Ball State's Web site, DeHority opened in 1960. The university last remodeled the building in 1998.
Kevin Kenyon, assistant director of facilities planning and management, said the new design used energy-efficient windows and insulation, recycled materials and sensor-controlled light switches and water fixtures.
Kenyon said he was unsure how renovation plans would affect the completed building's occupancy.
DeHority formerly housed 600 students.
Although the university will preserve the old building due to increased construction costs, Kenyon said, the DeHority renovation "amounts to a total gut and redo."
DeHority will reopen in Fall 2009, he said.
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