One noticeable change is that the massive metal interior fire doors that were installed at intervals along the corridors, probably in the 1950s, to provide fire-code compliance have been replaced with more attractive modern doors surrounded by double layers of glass. Sandwiched between these doorways, and also on stairwell landings, are spaces sporting mysterious signs that say “Area of Refuge.” Closer inspection of these areas reveals wall panels with buttons and two-way speakers that students or teachers can use for instant communication with campus security in the event of any sort of emergency.
OMB is much more handicapped-friendly now. The main entrance has a new granite ramp, new iron railings and a keypad-operated automatic door for the wheelchair-bound, and a special wheelchair lift is accessible right inside the door, before you get to the first flight of steps. I didn’t check out the restrooms during my visit, but word has it that they have been renovated to provide an originally restored feel while incorporating full accessibility for the disabled.
“The renovated building provides energy-efficient air conditioning, heating, lighting and improved plumbing facilities. The students and faculty alike will appreciate the more uniform temperature-controlled facility,” notes McEnrue. “It is often believed that building upgrades that are necessary to keep pace with modern technology, conformance with safety codes and expected occupant comforts cannot coincide with restorations of beautiful and historically significant buildings. SUNY-New Paltz and the State University Construction Fund have proven this theory wrong with the renovation of Old Main.”
The folks behind this ambitious project have a lot to be proud of, but it’s not over yet. Improvements to the Studley Theatre, on the ground floor of the north wing, which include asbestos abatement, electrical and air conditioning upgrades and restoration of the control booth, are awaiting their finishing touches. And the exterior stairs, apron and landscaping around the Auditorium entrance are still under construction. The north wing is scheduled for completion sometime this fall, at which point the whole building will have a rededication ceremony. Undoubtedly, state senator John Bonacic and state Assembly member Kevin Cahill (a 1977 alumnus) will be in attendance, since they helped secure a special appropriation from state coffers toward the $32 million cost of the project.
Meanwhile, if the mess that still exists around the evolving northeast corner of OMB offends your eye, take a stroll down Plattekill. I’m pleased to report that the massive oak, maple and beech trees on the north lawn — which were already impressive enough to inspire this correspondent to write a poem about them back in her own student days — are still there, and still magnificent. With any luck, their foliage will be in full autumnal glory in time for OMB’s full reopening.
For more information about the Old Main Building renovation and other construction projects on the SUNY-New Paltz campus, call 257-3245 or visit www.newpaltz.edu/construction. ++
