PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — Dobson Hall reopened for residents after crews from CD Smith Construction worked throughout the summer to update the hall. A new lobby, new lighting and an elevator are among some of the new amenities.

Resident Director Rebecca Groves said that many students have enjoyed the new bathrooms, which are now semi-private and allow more space for students to change clothes. Also new to each bathroom is a small handicap bathroom for students with disabilities or those who are uncomfortable showering among others. Other major changes include a new resident floor layout, a new staircase from the lobby down to the revamped basement and new windows which allow natural lighting throughout the building.

“The furniture is all new, we added all new carpeting, all new paint,” said Groves.

Groves said many of the things people usually do not see, such as plumbing, electrical, cable and internet, have also been changed.

One of the biggest changes was the basement, which was entirely redone.

“The basement floor was totally ripped out,” said Groves. “They completely jackhammered the whole thing out and then re-poured the entire basement floor.”

Cassie Roach, senior math education major and resident assistant, said she enjoyed the new bathroom and hallway layouts the most.

“One of the things I like the most is the change to the bathroom structure,” Roach said. “And being able to stand in one spot and being able to see down all of the wings [on each floor].”

Bailey Rockwood, sophomore chemistry major, expressed her overall pleasure of the updates, and the common areas appear more open and foster of a sense of community. Rockwood added that her favorite update is the kitchen.

“[The kitchen] is bigger, more space even though it’s still kind of cramped when there’s a lot of people,” Rockwood said. “It’s much easier to make food as there’s more counter space.”

In Dobson’s basement there are several new rooms available for anyone on campus to utilize. Groups can request to use any of the three Tiki Rooms or the multi-purpose rooms through the senior assistant, Zach Ferree. Requests are needed at least two weeks in advanced and requests by staff or residents of Dobson Hall take priority.