MUNCIE, Ind. - Because contractors' bids for Ball State University's new Music Instruction Building were above the architect's estimates, construction has been rescheduled for next March.

Construction was originally scheduled to start this fall for the $21 million facility at the corner of Riverside and McKinley avenues.

"Based on a review of bids received, we are confident the building plans can be modified to get the project within the approved budget and still preserve building quality," said Kevin Kenyon, associate vice president for facilities.

"We've received good feedback from the contractors," added Tom Frisbie-Fulton, director of facilities planning. "While we were all disappointed, the process will result in a better building for less money."

Ball State plans to continue this fall with site utility work and to re-bid the building after the first of the year.

When completed in 2003, the Music Instruction Building will offer the campus a new 600-seat performance hall, band and choral practice rooms and a state-of-the-art digital recording studio.

Most of the parking lot at the corner of Riverside and McKinley will remain open until further notice.

(NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, contact Kenyon at kkenyon@bsu.eduor (765) 285-8988.)