University of Michigan to seek construction bids on $155M dormitory construction

The school is seeking permission from the Board of Regents during a meeting Thursday to begin accepting construction bids and awarding contracts for the $116 million East Quadrangle residence hall and the $39 million Lawyers Club renovations, which will begin later this year.

Regents approved the schematic design for Lawyers Club renovations in December. The upgrade will bring air conditioning to the 1920s-era dormitory and create additional community spaces for student residents.

East Quadrangle, which houses roughly 860 students and the university's Residential College program, also will undergo a significant mechanical, electrical and aesthetic renovation.

Both renovations are scheduled to begin after winter semester classes finish and will continue during the 2012-2013 academic year.

Also to be discussed at the regents meeting: The school's College of Engineering wants to rename the existing Computer Science and Engineering Building the Bob and Betty Beyster Building because of a recent $15 million gift the family bestowed on the college.

Kellie Woodhouse covers higher education for AnnArbor.com. Reach her at kelliewoodhouse@annarbor.com or 734-623-4602 and follow her on twitter.