Restoration of Lord Jeffery Inn back on

AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) - The project will cost about $14 million, but the college says it's an investment that will pay for itself.

Renovations to the inn were put on hold last November because the economy reduced the college's endowment by 20 percent.

Originally, the renovations were estimated to cost about $30 million, but the school has scaled back the cost.

All 49 rooms will be renovated, the restaurant will be expanded, and a ballroom will be added.

The Director of Facilities for Amherst College Jim Brassord told 22News that this will not only benefit the college, but it will also benefit downtown Amherst.

"The inn is really an economic drive for the downtown," said Brassord.

The college will be breaking ground on this project next spring and it's scheduled to be completed in the spring of 2011.