(Radio Iowa) –  The Board of Regents has approved a plan for Iowa State University to tear down LeBaron Hall and replace it with a new building. I-S-U’s Shawn Norman says LeBaron Hall was built in 1952 and has had no significant renovation since its original construction. He says replacing the building would address their concerns and offer a contemporary learning environment to encourage independent learning and leadership development.

New LaBaron classroom design (ISU photo)

Students in the apparel, merchandising and design program would use the new production labs and teaching spaces. Construction is expected to start in September 2024 and will be completed by summer of 2026. The estimated project budget is 39 million dollars to be funded by private giving and university funds.