Oberlin students talk about changing the world, but in the next few years, this community may see construction closer to home. The College’s long-term plans could bring a new hotel and conference center, new practice rooms, new dorms or all of the above to the site that now houses the Oberlin Inn. Though plans are at an early stage, what is being billed as the “Oberlin College and Community Green Arts District” might be the next big project in town.

“There are many possible components being discussed for what might be a part of the district, and a new Oberlin Inn with conference facilities is certainly one of them,” said College Sustainability Coordinator Nathan Engstrom. “Student housing, retail space, academia classrooms and additional performance and rehearsal space are also being discussed.”

The first step in this process will be to conduct a study to explore the many possible uses of the space.

“We’ve announced a feasibility study to look at the so-called ‘inn block’ for a possible green College and community arts district,” said College President Marvin Krislov. “We have not yet selected the feasibility study planner.”

Vice President for Finance Ron Watts emphasized that the planning has barely begun: “There are no set plans or preconstruction ideas of size or cost. The realization of a new facility is likely more than a few years away.”

Even at this early stage, the project has captured some community members’ interest. A recent report in Elyria’s Chronicle-Telegram suggested that a new, multi-story conference center could stretch Oberlin’s 35-foot limit on building height. The town has already granted an exception for the proposed 40-foot jazz studies building.

City Council President David Sonner emphasized that these concerns are premature: “Having no idea what the architects are doing if they’re doing anything, it’s much too early to puzzle over.” he said.

With plans barely hatched, Engstrom did find one certainty in the project: “It has the potential to utilize cutting-edge green building principles, showcase innovative architectural design, incorporate low or no-carbon energy sources and demonstrate [a] renewable energy system. It also has the potential to attract new businesses to Oberlin, bring visitors in from out of town, create new jobs and generally act as an economic development tool for the community.”

That potential will keep both the College and the town watching the project with excitement. “Let’s do it!” said Sonner. “I’m brimming with enthusiasm for the green arts block project.”