When did the demolition of Maple Hall begin and when will it be completed?
The project began on July 19, 2013, and should be finished by the end of September.

How will the demolition affect students and their families during move-in for Fall semester?
Oak Hall residents arriving with their belongings will need to walk a bit farther as they bypass the demolition zone between the parking lot and their residence hall. To make the experience as convenient and enjoyable as possible, the university has established an early move-in belongings opportunity for Oak Hall residents only,

Saturday & Sunday August 17-18, from noon to 5 p.m.
Monday – Thursday, August 19-22, from 5-8 p.m.

Students can also arrive on the regular Move-In Day, Friday, Aug. 23, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Orientation activities begin at approximately 3 p.m.

We recommend early item drop off for your convenience. Due to limited staffing and activities, students staying is not encouraged. However, if due to circumstances staying is understandable. There is a charge associated with early arrival (the person, not just stuff), for $20 a night. If this is an option you would like to explore, please contact the Residential Life office. Clarification: you may drop off your belongings in the designated times for free. If your student would like to stay, they would need to follow our early arrival policy. All students first day of housing contract is August 23.

I would like to move my personal belongings in early, what do I do?
Please go to http://studentvoice.com/bsu/oakearlydropoff and let us know when you are planning to arrive. Keep an eye on our website to be aware of updates. When you arrive on your drop items off date, please go to the Oak Front Desk (the doors will be open), and pick up your room key and fill out paperwork. Move in items. When finished, turn key back in to the desk, and receive an “express” pass. When you arrive on Friday August 23, go to the “express” check in, grab your key, and special welcome gifts, and enjoy your day, since all your items are in your room already!

I am unable to bring my items in early.
No problem, we will have regular check in and move in on August 23rd starting at 9 am. You will fill out your paperwork, and receive your welcome items when you arrive. Orientation starts at 3 pm, and most students will find if they arrive before noon, have plenty of time to unpack before the weekend.

Why wasn’t the demolition completed before the return of students for the fall semester?
The university has been committed to getting the job done as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the timing has been subject to the schedule of the project contractor, approvals by the Minnesota State System of Colleges and Universities, and steps needed to ensure the safety and environmental protection of the work area.

Why is Maple Hall being torn down?
Demolition of Maple Hall is part of Bemidji State’s master residential life plan, completed in 2006. Removing Maple reduces the total number of beds in BSU residence halls by more than 400, to about 1,450 – in line with current and future needs. That reduction will save operating costs and help pay the cost of renovations to Linden and Birch halls, which provide living spaces more in line with evolving student preferences.

How will Oak Hall residents be affected by the Maple Hall demolition after they move in?
Every effort will be made to minimize the disruption and inconvenience for residents of Oak Hall. The demolition work will begin each weekday no earlier than 9:00 a.m. and conclude by 7:00 p.m.

What is being done to ensure the safety of Oak Hall and other residents during the Maple Hall demolition?
Preparations for the job included removal of any building materials that could pose a hazard during demolition. Air quality monitoring is continuing throughout the project to ensure health and safety of Oak Hall residents and everyone in the vicinity. Fencing around the site will keep everyone at a safe distance during the work.

What will be done with the site of Maple Hall once the demolition is completed?
Oak Hall will have a yard for the first time. Ideas suggested for the space include installation of a lawn area and barbecue and fire pits. The university welcomes campus input, though improvements will depend on available funding. After the demolition, improved lighting will create a secure walkway from Oak Hall to the parking lot. Current volleyball and recreation areas will remain.