U of A To Renovate One Of Arizona's Oldest Public Buildings

October 03, 2013

The University of Arizona is renovating a landmark that the school calls its "front porch." "Old Main" is one of the Arizona's oldest public buildings.

Old Main Old Main, the oldest building on the University of Arizona campus in Tucson, was originally built in 1891. (Photo by Julie Levin-KJZZ)

It is where the university held its first classes in 1891. Old Main is being modernized after a $13.5 million fundraising campaign.

President Ann Weaver Hart said the project will ensure the building will be around for generations of students to come. Hart also said her own office will be moved into Old Main from the administration tower, allowing her to be more visible, engaged and accessible.

The renovation includes repairing a damaged foundation and exterior veranda as well as cracked masonry columns. It will also included updating the ventilation and other systems. The renovation is scheduled to be finished next summer.