Albany-- Ray Charles may have passed on, but his legacy continues. Albany State University shold soon find out just how close they are to starting construction on the new Ray Charles Fine Arts building.
The building itself was approved in 2000-2001 by the Board of Regents, and will be paid for by money the board approved.
Dr.Leroy E. Bynum, Jr., DMA, Chairman of ASU's Department of Fine Arts says the pace of construction has alot to do with the economy. "If the economy is good and the board approves several buildings, because the buildings get built in order. Say if they approve the building of four buildings this year and six buildings next year then we move down."
In the last four to five years Dr. Bynum says they've moved down 18 spots to number 10. They are hopeful to have the money and eager to start working on their new building within the next two years.
Once built, they are planning to house their theatre, art, music, and mass commnuication departments there. Those classes are currently being held in Holley Hall, along with both the English and Speech departments.
Dr. Bynum tells us that the three-million dollars donated by Ray Charles is being used throughout the University. Charles also wanted his mother remembered and so they are naming one of the rooms in the building in her honor. The building itself wll costs roughly $27 million.
As for plans for Holley Hall, It is up to the Board of Regents what happens next.
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