ANN ARBOR—University of Michigan Regents, at their June 17 meeting, approved the proposed improvements to the Horace H. Rackham School of Graduate Studies Building.
“In 1996, an infrastructure study of the building was undertaken by the original architectural firm, SHG Incorporated, documenting the existing conditions of the structure and providing a comprehensive plan for the renewal of the 1938 building,” said Robert Kasdin, U-M executive vice president.
“The study identified the work necessary to update the systems and elements of the building. More recently Rackham Administration has prepared a program statement that speaks to the academic needs of the programs housed in the building. The building is proposed to function generally as it has over the years. Improvements are planned for the general office areas, the central galleries, the lecture rooms, the study lounges and the auditorium.
“The architectural program has been completed and describes the work necessary to improve the functionality of the building while updating the infrastructure. Accessibility for the disabled, safety, security, and general building code compliance will be a specific focus of the renovation. The overall improvements are estimated to cost approximately $44 million.
“At a future Regents’ meeting we will present the proposed first phase of the project, the estimated cost, and identify the source of funds.”
The Regents approved the renovation project and authorized commissioning the firm of SHG Incorporated for its design and construction drawings as well as recommendations regarding phasing of the project.

RegentsSHG Incorporatedover the years