UC Blue Ash takes next step in major renovation project

Muntz Hall, the flagship building on the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College campus, is in the next phase of a major renovation project that will dramatically transform the main entrance, enhance access to student support services and add new spaces for students to study or meet between classes.

Muntz Hall was constructed in 1967 when UC Blue Ash opened as one of the first regional colleges in Ohio. The college has grown significantly since then, both in terms of campus facilities and student enrollment. Today, more than 4,400 students attend the college, which is located on a park-like campus in the City of Blue Ash.

UC Blue Ash leaders have collaborated with UC’s Planning Design and Construction (PDC) over the past few years to completely renovate the second and third floors of Muntz Hall and create modern new classrooms, new office suites and more areas for students to study or recharge between classes.

Photos above: Construction in Muntz Hall will modernize the space  and provide more areas for students to collaborate, study or recharge between classes. Photos/UC Blue Ash.

The project has now advanced to its next stage, focusing on the first floor's main entrance and atrium, along with a dedicated area that will house essential student support services. The overall renovations represent an investment of approximately $35 million, with some of it sourced through state funding.

“We are very grateful for all the support and hard work that makes this next phase of our renovation project possible,” said UC Blue Ash Dean Robin Lightner, PhD. “The goal of each phase of this renovation is to repurpose the existing space to provide modern spaces that are better suited for the latest technology and that better serve our students, faculty and staff. I’m excited with the progress we are making and look forward to the different ways these renovations will support student success and enhance our campus.”

Construction teams have closed off the courtyard in front of Muntz Hall as they work to incorporate a portion of it into the new main entrance and atrium. The finished product will include a two-story atrium that adds 5,700 square feet to the front of Muntz Hall and features plenty of natural light, new study rooms and additional space for campus events. The new courtyard and entrance will include several flower beds and new walkways.

Work on the project is progressing on schedule while the college moves forward with the summer term and planning for the fall semester.

Work is also progressing on schedule on a section of the first floor that is being renovated to provide new offices for academic advising, career services, counseling services and enrollment services. These offices are currently spread out in Muntz Hall, but this update will bring them into the same shared area and make it easier for students to access these important resources.

Scheduled for completion in January 2025, the student support wing will be followed by the unveiling of the new atrium and main entrance next summer. Spanning approximately 16,000 square feet, this phase marks an important milestone in UC Blue Ash's ongoing commitment to providing an exceptional learning environment.

Additional renovations are planned for the remainder of the first floor of Muntz Hall, but those will depend on funding. They include plans to turn the outdated auditorium into a new multi-purpose space that could be used for classes and events, as well as adding a second floor for classrooms and offices.

Featured Image: Barriers surround the courtyard in front of Muntz Hall as part of the Phase 5 renovations. Photo/UC Blue Ash.