St. John Center Initiates $5 Million Renovation of Historic Byrne Hall in Little Rock
Renovations have commenced on the 110-year-old Byrne Hall, located on the St. John Center campus in Little Rock, Arkansas. The project, estimated at $5 million, aims to expand meeting, office, and storage spaces, and will include the addition of a warming kitchen. The renovation is largely supported by donors to the Catholic Arkansas Sharing Appeal. During the year-long construction period, the Harrison Street entrance to the campus will be closed, with all visitors directed to use the main gate on N. Tyler Street. Bishop Anthony B. Taylor highlighted the necessity of this overhaul, noting the current lack of adequate space to accommodate requests for retreats, conferences, and meetings. Byrne Hall, a two-story marble, granite, and brick structure, was built in 1916 and designed by Frank M. Blaisdell, who also designed the grounds of the Arkansas State Capitol. It was originally known as the “service building” for Little Rock College and St. John Seminary.
