Demolition is underway on the University of Oregon’s Hamilton Hall in Eugene.

Workers began tearing down the shuttered dormitory late last month. They plan to backfill the building’s basement while UO is on winter break.

“By the time students come back, there should be virtually nothing left of Hamilton,” said University Architect Mike Harwood.

The demolition is part of UO’s years-long project to replace some of its aging residence halls.

Construction on Hamilton began in 1960, so Harwood said it lacked the air-conditioning, in-suite bathrooms and study spaces that some students now demand.

“We did not expect a lot from our residence halls as students in the 50s,” said Harwood. “They were just a box that you slept in.”

Once demolition on Hamilton is complete, the site will be convert

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