Eastern Oregon University Inlow Hall Phase 2

 
McCormack Construction partnered with Eastern Oregon University on the comprehensive Phase 2 renovation of Inlow Hall, the flagship administration building at the university’s La Grande campus. The $16.6 million project was completed in December 2024 and represents a significant investment in preserving and modernizing one of EOU’s most historic and essential facilities. Constructed in 1929, Inlow Hall serves as the central service location for all university administration, housing offices from student administration to the President’s office.
 
The project involved a 44,800-square-foot remodel delivering seismic upgrades to the basement, first floor, second floor, and attic, along with exterior concrete restoration and a full clay tile re-roof. McCormack replaced 195 aluminum windows throughout the building and provided design-build services for fall protection, audio-visual systems for the university’s primary boardroom, and major architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire suppression upgrades. McCormack served as CM/GC, working closely with the owner from early design phases to provide a successful and cost-effective design solution.
 
Key challenges included managing construction within an active university environment and adhering to an aggressive schedule that required project completion while minimizing disruption to daily operations. Coordinating the extensive scope of work across multiple floors and building systems while maintaining access for university staff and students demanded careful planning and precise execution throughout the 19-month construction period.
 
To address these challenges, McCormack installed safety fencing and controls at all site entrances and exits to protect students, staff, and visitors. The team implemented detailed CPM scheduling, trade stacking strategies, and comprehensive coordination to ensure that work progressed efficiently without interfering with university operations. These measures allowed construction to proceed on schedule while maintaining a safe and accessible campus environment.
 
The project was completed on time, with anticipated cost savings expected to more than offset any change orders. For McCormack Construction, this project demonstrates expertise in complex historic renovation within occupied educational facilities while preserving architectural integrity and meeting modern seismic and operational standards.