Ohio University’s historic Scott Quad building is set to be torn down
By: Jada Respress
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ATHENS, Ohio (WOUB) — Ohio University plans to demolish a historic campus building despite efforts by a local preservation group to buy time to explore other uses for the structure.
In October, the university decided to tear down Scott Quad, an 85-year-old building named after the school’s seventh president. It was first used as a dormitory and has had multiple other uses over the years.
The building now requires extensive and expensive repairs.
“It needs about $48.6 million in renovations,” said university spokesperson Carly Leatherwood.
Because of the cost, the university has deemed the building unsalvageable. Demolition is set to begin in late summer.
Earlier this month, members of the city’s Historic Preservation Commission drafted a resolution asking that demolition be delayed for a year to give them time to find potential uses for the building.
Commission members want to save the building because of its history and architectural features, including its archways.
“I hate to see Scott Quad go but the owner (OU) does have the right to do what it will with the building,” said Mary Anne Reeves, president of the Historic Preservation Commission.
The resolution was submitted to university President Hugh Sherman and the board of trustees were informed.
Leatherwood said Sherman has been away from the office and she’s not sure if he’s seen the resolution.
Scott Quad is located near the core science and student engagement buildings on campus so once it’s gone the flattened area will be used to enhance the student engagement, Leatherwood said.