Improvements being made at the entrance of The Hurley School of Music at Centenary College will ease access for students and community members

Improvements being made at the entrance of The Hurley School of Music at Centenary College will ease access for students and community members with physical challenges by providing a front entrance compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Previously, anyone entering the building from Wilkinson Avenue had to traverse a long, steep sidewalk, while the entrance from Woodlawn involves negotiating a series of stairs. Thanks to a donation from a private donor, a new half-circle driveway now under construction will approach from either side of the stairs facing Woodlawn and allow vehicles to load and unload near the doors at the front entrance of the building. A gently sloped ramp leading to the front doors of the building will provide the ADA compliance.

Dr. Cory Wikan, acting dean of the Hurley School of Music, comments, “While I personally am saddened by the loss of two trees, I am thankful that this generous gift will, among other things, afford improved access to the Hurley Music Building for those with disabilities. The new drive will allow patrons to be dropped either directly at the front steps of the building or at a new ramp that will allow wheelchairs to access the front door.”

These improvements affect not only the students of Centenary College but all others who visit the Hurley School of Music. The current accommodation for visitors to the Hurley School who require an ADA entrance is located at the rear of the building and increases the distance one must travel to reach the main area of the building.

Tina Feldt, director of counseling and disability services, explains, “The changes occurring outside of Hurley are much needed for those individuals who have mobility challenges. The intent is to create access for students and others in the local community who use wheelchairs. Every attempt is being made to maintain the beauty of our campus while being cost-effective in meeting standards established by the Americans with Disabilities Act.”

Construction is slated to be completed in May of this year.

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