Ohio University is in the process of designing and scheduling upcoming renovations to buildings 13, 14 and 18 at The Ridges. As this planning has progressed, there has been a great deal of interest in this project from faculty, students, staff and the community.

The first phase of this renovation will begin soon, and involves the abatement of potentially hazardous materials from the interior of the buildings. Starting in September, contractors will begin removing lead-based paint and asbestos-containing materials.

This work creates conditions which could be hazardous to anyone entering the work area without the proper protective equipment and training. Only authorized personnel should enter these buildings while abatement or renovation work is being performed. To ensure utmost safety during the abatement process, a containment area will be established, and contractors will only be entering the buildings from the back dock of building 14. The entrance at building 19 into buildings 13, 14 and 18 will be cordoned off and will not be used by contractors.

During this renovation, the current building occupants are being relocated to other buildings. This relocation is being done to streamline the renovation schedule, minimize impact to building occupants, and out of an abundance of caution to avoid potential conflicts between renovation crews’ work and building occupant’s needs. Because the materials undergoing the abatement process are currently intact, there is no reason to believe the current building occupants have been exposed to contaminants or conditions which would pose a health threat.

There will be ample opportunities for interested parties to view these buildings after renovations are complete. Construction activities are dangerous, and visitor access in not permitted during construction. In the past, unauthorized access and vandalism have been reoccurring problems at The Ridges. Trespassing and unauthorized access in the renovation area is prohibited, and violators will be prosecuted to protect the safety of all involved.

Please contact Facilities Management and Safety for any questions or concerns at 593-2911.