UCSB Music Department Glow-Up: Big Renovations in Progress!

UCSB Department of Music Renovation Plan Schematics

Media Contact

Alessandra Villegas
Marketing and Communications Manager
a_villegas@ucsb.edu

October 7, 2024

The UCSB Department of Music is currently undergoing some major construction to make it a safer and more accessible space for students, faculty, and visitors. The upgrades focus on seismic strengthening, improving accessibility, and fixing up some older parts of the building that just need a little TLC.

⚒ Seismic Strengthening

The Music Unit 1 Building, which was originally built in 1954, is getting much-needed upgrades to withstand potential earthquakes. The improvements include adding strong concrete walls, reinforcing existing structures, upgrading the building’s foundation, and strengthening other parts like columns and beams to keep everything safe.

♿ Accessibility Upgrades

To make sure the building is accessible to everyone, UCSB is adding features like a new access ramp, upgraded restrooms, better door handles, new signs, and improved drinking fountains. These upgrades will help ensure the building meets modern standards and is easier to navigate for people of all abilities.

✨ Deferred Maintenance

In addition to safety and accessibility, the building will also get some long-overdue repairs. This includes upgrading the heating, ventilation, and lighting systems, fixing damaged parts of the building like the roof, stairs, and railings, and removing any hazardous materials.

These improvements will make the Department of Music a more welcoming and safe place for everyone! Keep an eye out as the project continues.

We are very excited to report that, as of now, the seismic retrofit on the north wing of our facility is scheduled to be completed around the beginning of December. While this could very well change, we are hopefully optimistic that we will be able to start moving back activities in Winter and Spring quarters. We are so very excited to see the new classroom layouts and all of the other updates such as the completely remodeled restrooms. More info to follow as the quarter progresses!

- David Holmes, Chief Administrative Officer