Wilberforce University will soon embark on a significant rehabilitation project to revitalize three key buildings within its academic complex. With a $750,000 grant from the National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Fund, the initiative will enhance accessibility and ensure compliance with ADA standards in the Stokes, King, and Walker buildings.
After months of meticulous planning and contractor selection, Wilberforce will begin work with Miami Valley Works, led by Eric Swan, and CED Architects, represented by Craig Dillon.
A Project to Make Campus More Accessible
The rehabilitation project will introduce several vital upgrades to enhance accessibility for students and faculty. Planned improvements include the installation of new elevators, exterior ramps, upgraded entrance doors, restroom enhancements, and stairlifts. Additionally, the project will connect two currently separate buildings and construct facilities for the university’s music program.
“We are excited about finally moving forward with this project,” said Dr. Kenneth E. Jones, Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff at Wilberforce. “It took some time to identify contractors who met federal requisites. However, Wilberforce was committed to seeing this project through to completion, and we are eager to get started.”
Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), who announced the grant last year, emphasized the vital role that Historically Black Colleges and Universities play in preserving American history, stating, “By working with our National Park Service to honor key sites at HBCUs, we are preserving the legacy of these institutions. This investment at Wilberforce University gives future generations of Ohioans the opportunity to learn about our state’s proud history.”
Dr. Vann R. Newkirk, President of Wilberforce, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential impact on the university community and local environment. “This project not only enhances the Wilberforce community by preserving our historic campus but also significantly enhances the value of the Wilberforce community,” he remarked. “Further, by improving accessibility and modernizing our facilities, we are creating a more inclusive and dynamic environment for our students to thrive.”
The rehabilitation project is expected to be completed in 2025.
