Mill Street Village

Mill Street Village, which consists of 14 buildings, was originally built around 1968 and used by Ohio University for married housing. In 2005 Ohio University leased the complex to Wesam Construction Inc. of Chester Ohio on a 40 year lease. Wesam Construction invested approximately $9,000,000 in renovations in order to rent apartments to both Ohio University students and the general public.

Pickering Associates was hired by Wesam Construction to provide all design and engineering services for this extensive renovation. The project goal was to do limited architectural and infrastructure renovations. However, since the building sat vacant for a few years and extensive damage was done by vandalism, a complete overhaul of all complexes including the high-rise building was necessary.

This project involved a new electrical feed being brought to the site and subsequent distribution to all complexes. As with any existing college dorm or apartment, the communication wiring was in need of updating. All complexes were provided with broad band communication capabilities. The existing mechanical system was comprised of a single underground steam system which serviced all buildings. This system was evacuated and replaced with individual units for each apartment. New natural gas infrastructure design and plumbing system design were also deemed necessary after demolition began and revealed substantial problem areas. As an added touch, covered canopies were provided on all townhouse type complexes.