NIU can develop a full dance program after the conversion of a Gabel Hall gymnasium into dance studios.

NIU Project Manager Conrad Miller said the $207,000 remodeling project will include a new floor, electrical improvements, and partitions to divide the space into three studios. In addition, nearby classrooms will be converted to offices and storage space.

The new studios will be a welcome and long-awaited addition for the two departments at NIU with dance programs, physical education, and theatre arts.

Billie Mahoney, dance coordinator for the two programs, said the new studios will help gain accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD), which requires a minimal amount of studio space.

The new studios in Gabel Hall also will have a “sprung” floor, required by the NASD. A sprung floor is elevated and cushioned with air to prevent back injuries while dancing, Mahoney said.

Miller said the old wood floor must be removed because of the water damage suffered as a result of a leaky roof. Although the roof was repaired last year, water already had seeped under the floor, warping the wood to produce large “waves”

Although asbestos was found in some floor tiles, it was removed during the summer, and testing showed the area to be safe, Miller said.

The project, paid for with funds made available from the Build Illinois Project, is expected to be finished in time for classes next semester.

Miller said NIU hired the engineering firm of Burnidge, Cassell, and Associates of Elgin. The Capital Development Board (CDB), which oversees the fund, accepted bids from contractors last week and Oct. 25.

In addition to NASD accreditation, Mahoney said she hopes to see an increase in involvement with the dance programs. “Dance is important for everyone. Everyone should dance,” Mahoney said.

Mahoney said she also has high hopes for the quality of NIU’s dance programs. “We are trying to develop the best dance program, not only in this state, but the entire Midwest,” Mahoney said.