Hueston Woods Lodge and Conference Center is scheduled for a $3.3 million renovation project in the coming year, according to an appropriation from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

“Our goal is to continue providing the high-quality services and amenities Ohioans expect,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “After a fun day exploring one of Ohio’s 75 state parks, we want our guests to experience excellent hospitality however they choose to stay with us, whether that’s a cabin, a full-service campsite, or a newly renovated lodge.”

The major portion of the project will be replacement of the roof on the 92-room lodge. The original cedar shake roof in the lodge, which was constructed in 1964, will be replaced by a roof made of synthetic plastic material, guaranteed to last 50-plus years, according to Ken Elliott, parks manager for ODNR.

The 92,300 square foot lodge, located at 5201 Lodge Road, is a centerpiece of the 3,000 acre state park five miles north of Oxford. The lodge includes guest rooms, dining facilities, conference facilities, access to an outdoor swimming pool and all the other park amenities.

 According to the project overview, the existing roof is beyond its useful lifespan and exposes the building to water leaks and damage. Other than routine maintenance, this will be the first major renovation to the lodge since 1991, when a new front entryway was added, and 1999, when an elevator was added, according to ODNR.

The project is in a pre-construction phase now. Renovations are expected to begin in late winter or early spring, depending on the weather. Completion is expected by October, 2020.  The lodge will remain open for business during the project.

“The State is looking to upgrade its lodges for the customers,” said Elliott.

Along with the roof, the lodge also will get upgrades to its fire hydrants and a pumping station, for fire protection.