Crites Hall entryway getting a facelift

Crites Hall, the hub of student services at CSC, is seen as a bustling building but rarely a loud one. That hasn’t been the case the past seven days because its residents have endured some noisy and intruding excavating work to the front entryway. Thankfully, the disruptive demolition is expected to cease later this week.  

Beginning in late November, Fuller Construction of Chadron began removing Crites Hall’s western-facing concrete stairs and landings, which were original to the art-deco building when it was completed in 1938, to pave the way for a renovated entryway. The demolition crew is also tearing out old rebar and several yards of deteriorating concrete before beginning work on the new structure.

“Anytime we tear up a main entrance to Chadron State College or one of its buildings, it’s difficult for students and employees. But with a few more days of patience, we should be able to see new and great things happening,” said Blair Brennan, construction project coordinator. “This new entryway was necessary because of the deteriorating concrete and rusting handrails were starting to pose a safety concern.”

The construction, costing nearly $200,000, is expected to be completed in April 2016. The improved entryway is expected to be almost identical to the former design, except there won’t be concrete planters, Brennan said. Instead, concrete pedestals will be poured for future planters and flower pots. A railing will also be installed, sets of stairs will be updated to the two basement entries, and an ADA compliant ramp will tie directly into the building’s elevator. Brennan also said light poles could potentially be installed at a later date.

Crites Hall is named for Edwin Crites, Chadron attorney and member of the Nebraska Normal Board from 1931 to 1953. It was built in 1938 over a span of eight months to serve as the men’s dormitory. It cost $150,000 and contained 53 double rooms, a large parlor and fireplace. A museum was once in the basement but those items were discarded in the 1960s. Another portion of the basement also served as the college’s student union prior to the opening of Memorial Hall in 1954.