University of Michigan's President's Residence on the Ann Arbor campus will undergo a $15 million renovation.
The project will upgrade the building’s accessibility, security and safety and preserve the home’s historical character, reports WDIV Local 4.
The president’s house is the oldest building on campus and now is vacant. Built in 1840, it is listed on the national and state Registers of Historic Places.
In addition to serving as a home for the university president, the facility hosts more than 70 events annually.
The upgrades will bring the facility into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will add a bathroom on the ground floor, a west entrance, an outdoor patio with ground-level ramp access, new exterior doors and a connection between the patio and sunroom. New kitchen and dining spaces will be added.
Historical features that will be preserved throughout the home: a library with full-wall bookcases, moldings, hardwood flooring and other woodwork.
Security updates will include updated fire detection, alarm and security systems.
The project is expected to be completed by February 2023.
The project will be designed by the university's Department of Architecture, Engineering and Construction.
