The planning stage of the University's Lincoln Hall renovations can begin now that Gov. Rod Blagojevich has released the requested $2 million for the initial stages of the project.

Renovating Lincoln Hall has been a high priority at the University for many years. Several rooms in the building are deteriorating, making instruction there difficult at times for students and faculty members.

Earlier in the year, Blagojevich froze all capital projects, but he announced on Nov. 21 that the planning money for Lincoln Hall would be released.

Angie Amores, spokeswoman for Blagojevich, said the Lincoln Hall project was reviewed by a committee and approved because it fit the higher education criteria. Blagojevich said he wanted all capital improvement projects receiving funds to be related to either health care, education or economic development.

The actual renovations to the building are estimated to cost about $52 million. Associate Provost Bill Adams said the funding for renovations is included in the University's fiscal year 2005 budget request, but it is up to the state to release funds for the project.

"I think we're hopeful of getting some of (the money)," Adams said. "When you get planning money, it's a pretty shining indication that the state is going to fund the project down the road."

Cliff Carey, director of planning and design, said the building will get a new central heating and air system and an electricity upgrade. While the first floor won't change significantly, Carey said the basement and the second, third and fourth floors would look different.

Lincoln Hall was constructed in 1911. There have been no major renovations since 1930.

The Lincoln Theater, which is now used as a lecture hall, will also undergo changes — its backstage area will be converted for other uses, Carey said.

Carey said part of the $2 million will go toward hiring an architect and an engineer to determine how the building can best be renovated. He said the planning phase typically lasts from a year to 14 months after an architect is hired.