Private companies asked for proposals to bring back historical roots of WMU

Western Michigan’s East Campus is the oldest section of the university with some of its most striking architecture. Now school officials are looking for a way to revitalize the historical buildings there.

Private companies are being asked to to submit proposals to redevelop the 35-acres and five buildings, some that date back to 1904.

WMU is accepting letters of interest from firms that want to tour the site to get more information about the project before submitting proposals for redevelopment.

A campus and community task force has been meeting for two years to come up with plans for the property and buildings.

The buildings that could be redeveloped as part of the project are: the nearly vacant East Hall, West Hall, North Hall and the Speech and Hearing Building. Together, the four buildings total more than 225,000 square feet.

Vandercook Hall, a residence hall built in 1939 located across Oakland Drive from the site, also could be made available for development.

The university will accept proposals for redevelopment of the buildings separately or the total East Campus as a package.

East Hall was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, based on its architectural and historic significance. To retain that designation, any exterior alterations must follow federal guidelines for the rehabilitation of historic buildings.

The architectural integrity of any building selected for redevelopment must be preserved, but other than that, the school remains open to any economically viable idea.

“The eventual use of these buildings does not have to be university-related, but it cannot run counter to the mission of WMU,” says Bob Miller, WMU associate vice president for community outreach. He co-chaired the East Campus task force with David Dakin, director of campus planning.

For more information, to request a copy of the request for proposal, to submit a letter of interest or to pose questions in writing, contact Don Penskar, WMU director of logistical services.

Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: Cheryl Roland, Western Michigan University